Vuk Lungulov-Klotz, 2023, USA, 85 min.

Mutt follows Feña (Lio Mehiel) through a stress-filled New York City day, as he anticipates his estranged Chilean father’s visit. In his feature debut, Vuk Lugulov-Klotz, who is also trans, builds the story by consistently adding unfair burdens onto Feña’s shoulders. From rejection by family and friends to the micro-aggressions of strangers, the viewer cannot help but wonder if there will, one day, be a final straw that will break Fena’s back. But even as challenges pile up on Feña, he continues to do his best, demonstrating both his resilience and strength of character. (Karin Wolf)