Mute

Monette hasn't been to church in years, yet he finds himself sitting in a confessional booth. A troubling series of events involving his cheating wife, $125,000 and a mysterious hitchhiker has him telling a priest his life story and how one solitary ride through the New England country side has turned his world upside down.

Directed by Javier Meléndez, Mute leans on a strong ensemble — Thomas F. Walsh, Andrew Rudick, Cheryl McMahon — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2011.