Sword of Trust

Sword of Trust (2019) is Lynn Shelton's indie comedy, and you can watch it online on iFILM. Most of the dialogue was improvised, and it shows — people talk over each other, fumble, sound like actual humans. At the center is Mel, a grouchy pawn-shop owner played by stand-up comic Marc Maron.

Into his shop walk Cynthia and Mary (Jillian Bell and Michaela Watkins). Cynthia's late grandfather left her exactly one thing: an antique sword. He was convinced it was hard proof that the South actually won the Civil War. Sounds like nonsense, except there's a corner of the internet full of believers who'll pay real money for a relic like that. So four mismatched people pile into a van and chase one ridiculous deal.

Shelton builds the whole thing on conversation and awkward silence rather than plot twists. The humor is dry, warm, a little sad, and Maron is wonderful in a rare leading role. It was the director's final comedy, and it's full of her trademark humanity. Quiet-American-indie fans will love it. Stream Sword of Trust (2019) online on iFILM.