An aging poet finds purpose mentoring a talented teen, though exposing her to the poetry scene might be unwise.

Oscar Restrepo’s obsession with poetry has brought him no glory. Aging and erratic, he has succumbed to the cliché of the poet in the shadows. Meeting Yurlady, a teenage girl from humble roots, and helping her cultivate her talent brings some light to his days. But dragging her into the world of poets may not be the way.

“This year’s winner of the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at Cannes, “A Poet” is at once a wry character study, a biting social satire, and a timely meditation on the contradictions of making art within an inhospitable environment. Directed by rising Colombian director Simón Mesa Soto, the film shifts adroitly between scenes of melancholy lyricism and razor-sharp cringe comedy. As Oscar, first-time performer Rios anchors the film with a live-wire energy that is not soon forgotten.”

Vancouver Film Festival