Explosions, aliens, presidents fighting monsters -- nothing's off the table when it comes to making a big-budget mainstream blockbuster. However, there are plenty of new films this summer that don't have these things. They're the smaller movies, which aren't based on comic books or a '70s TV show or a board game.

While most independent films have limited release schedules, seeking out a local theater that's showcasing an interesting new indie is a great way to kick back and relax on a summer afternoon. This season, audiences have new offerings from Woody Allen and Wes Anderson, locales from Rome to New York City, and stories of love, death and time-travel.

Below, check out Moviefone's round up of indie films and documentaries we're most psyched for this season.

For the rest of Moviefone's 2012 Summer Preview, head here

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'God Bless America'

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Release Date: May 11 Who's In It? Joel Murray, Tara Lynn Barr What's It About: Bill's younger brother stars as Frank, a terminally ill man who takes his nothing-to-lose scenario and decides to clean up society. Aided by the crazy 16-year-old Roxy, he goes "Taxi Driver" on annoying reality TV debutantes, media loudmouths and people who text in the theater. Why We're Excited: The movie's director, Bobcat Goldthwait, is the king of the dark comedy. If your only perception of Bobcat is "that '80s comedian with the funny voice," then you're missing out on one of the edgiest comedic directors working today.

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Release Date: May 11
Who's In It? Joel Murray, Tara Lynn Barr
What's It About: Bill's younger brother stars as Frank, a terminally ill man who takes his nothing-to-lose scenario and decides to clean up society. Aided by the crazy 16-year-old Roxy, he goes "Taxi Driver" on annoying reality TV debutantes, media loudmouths and people who text in the theater.
Why We're Excited: The movie's director, Bobcat Goldthwait, is the king of the dark comedy. If your only perception of Bobcat is "that '80s comedian with the funny voice," then you're missing out on one of the edgiest comedic directors working today.

'God Bless America'

 

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Release Date: May 11 Who's In It? Joel Murray, Tara Lynn Barr What's It About: Bill's younger brother stars as Frank, a terminally ill man who takes his nothing-to-lose scenario and decides to clean up society. Aided by the crazy 16-year-old Roxy, he goes "Taxi Driver" on annoying reality TV debutantes, media loudmouths and people who text in the theater. Why We're Excited: The movie's director, Bobcat Goldthwait, is the king of the dark comedy. If your only perception of Bobcat is "that '80s comedian with the funny voice," then you're missing out on one of the edgiest comedic directors working today.

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