Sundance 2026: TELL ME EVERYTHING FINDS A TENDER, STORM‑LIT GRACE

Moshe Rosenthal’s Tell Me Everything pulses with the vibrant energy of the 1980s—catchy pop melodies, shifting cultural tides, and a fragile, hopeful family rediscovering how to breathe together. At its heart is young Boaz, portrayed with luminous sensitivity by Yair Mazor, whose uncovering of a long-buried truth about his father sparks a years-long quest for understanding. The film begins with a restless energy, capturing a boy whose sense of the expanding world feels almost overwhelming.

Moshe Rosenthal’s Tell Me Everything pulses with the vibrant energy of the 1980s—catchy pop melodies, shifting cultural tides, and a fragile, hopeful family rediscovering how to breathe together. At its heart is young Boaz, portrayed with luminous sensitivity by Yair Mazor, whose uncovering of a long-buried truth about his father sparks a years-long quest for understanding. The film begins with a restless energy, capturing a boy whose sense of the expanding world feels almost overwhelming.

As the AIDS crisis quietly looms in the background, Rosenthal sidesteps melodrama to focus on the intimate struggles of a family grappling with fear, secrecy, and love. The era’s music weaves through the film like a second voice, reflecting Boaz’s evolving perception of the adults around him. The story’s true power lies in its attention to small, meaningful gestures—glances, hesitations, and the quiet bravery of voicing what once seemed impossible to say.

The film’s structure spans years, charting Boaz’s journey from confusion to a richer, more compassionate understanding of his father. Some transitions feel light, yet the emotional core stays strong. Cohen’s performance deepens as the story unfolds, revealing a man driven by desire, shame, and a fierce devotion he struggles to express. Rosenthal’s direction allows him to develop slowly, adding depth and nuance.

By the final act, Tell Me Everything gracefully settles into a soothing rhythm of reconciliation. The film reveals that healing unfolds through small, meaningful moments—shared meals, surprises in conversation, and the courage to truly see someone. Rosenthal's lyrical tone casts a gentle glow over the closing scenes, enveloping the father and son in a warmth that feels deeply earned.

Tell Me Everything captivates with its powerful performances and unwavering emotional clarity. Rosenthal weaves a compelling story that celebrates the intricate nature of family ties, allowing Cohen, Dimri, and Mazor to craft a vivid portrait of love—one molded by time, bravery, and the spirit of an era.

Grade: B+.