‘Masc’ Review: A Sensitive Character Study Where Identity is Found in Imitation and Observation

Filmmaker Bertil Nilsson creates a grammar for masculinity in collaboration with his lead actor Joshua Griffin.

By Murtada Elfadl

Murtada Elfadl

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In “Masc,” director Bertil Nilsson pulls off a nifty trick: He observes an observer. Usually a film’s protagonist has the dominant POV, but here, Robin (Joshua Griffin) is trying to find his personality by observing other men in his orbit. He almost never initiates the action and is mostly reticent about his reactions, but he takes note of everything. This makes for a fascinating watching experience for the audience, as they find themselves in Robin’s shoes, trying to figure out how to behave. In the process “Masc” becomes a thoroughly unique experience.

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