Don't accept "minimalist" from "those critics" if it's "pejorative," and using it for a list of directors suggests, to me, a school, which it is not. No such thing exists. I'm glad it's not your definition, but so then why not just drop it? As for From Afar and my lists:
2016 IndieWire Critics Poll: Chris Knipp



Dec 5, 2016 8:21 pm
2016 IndieWire Critics Poll:
Chris Knipp
Filmleaf
FULL RESULTS: 2016 IndieWire Critics Poll
Best Film
1. Moonlight
2. Manchester by the Sea
3. Love & Friendship
4. Captain Fantastic
5. Hell or High Water
6. American Honey
7. I, Daniel Blake
8. From Afar
9. The Salesman
10. Loving