'Before The Moon Falls' Review: A Tribute to a Tortured Genius
The tragic story of a famous Samoan poet ends in heartbreak in the documentary Before the Moon Falls. Director Kimberlee Bassford's poignant portrait of a tortured genius is a stunning case study of the cinematic art form. Kimberlee not only draws attention to this acclaimed writer but also showcases the reality of documentary filmmaking when your subject is mentally unstable. Before the Moon Falls is a bittersweet but ultimately fascinating story of how one woman went from a promising artist to a prisoner.
To See the Beauty of Life, One Must Understand Suffering
The film centers around Sia Figiel, a groundbreaking author and poet. Sia is universally celebrated for giving a voice to the struggles of Samoan girls and women. Her status in the community was Kimberlee's initial inspiration to shed light on Sia's story. However, no one could have predicted what was to come. For eight years, Kimberlee follows Sia on her unconventional life journey from literary stardom to a diagnosis of depression and bipolar disorder. Sia's complex mental illness, which lay dormant for years, begins to rev up with a vengeance. She abandons her children, flees town, and ends up in the hospital after an overdose. Her struggles are intense, but her determination to overcome them is stronger.
For a while, it seems like the worst is behind them. Sia sits down with Kimberlee at what is supposed to be their last interview. She radiates hope and positivity; all indications point to this tumultuous story having a "Happily Ever After" Hollywood ending. But that's not what ends up happening.
As the documentary is nearing completion, Kimberlee receives a shocking message that Sia has been arrested over the death of a dear friend, Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard. Gabbard makes an appearance earlier in the film, which allows the audience to become familiar with her. This revelation throws Kimberlee and her film into disarray. What was intended to be a story arc of redemption and recovery instead becomes a tragedy. Using this news, Kimberlee breaks the fourth wall by appearing in the last ten minutes of the film. She records phone calls with Sia from prison, as well as video interviews with doctors who break down Sia's bipolar condition. Kimberlee, like her audience, is now trying to make sense of what happened.
A Near Decade-Long Production Comes to a Devastating End
After following Sia for nearly a decade, it would be easy for Kimberlee to show an empathetic bias toward her story. After all, this film was intended to end on a positive note. But Kimberlee never lets her personal feelings get in the way of the truth. As a journalist and documentary filmmaker for 20 years, she lays bare the ugly reality of mental illness. Intimate footage and conversations built on years of mutual trust make the whole viewing experience extremely personal. Sia has her flaws, but we never stop rooting for her recovery.
Director's Statement
"Mental illness cuts across cultural, political, educational, and socioeconomic lines. Around the world, communities are grappling with the impacts of mental illness in their streets, workplaces, schools, hospitals, and prisons. Moreover, mental illness doesn’t just impact individuals but their families and entire communities. Yet there is little understanding of the scope and diverse experiences of mental illness and little consensus of how to treat people who suffer from it. Sia’s story is just one woman’s story. It cannot represent everything about mental illness nor should it. But it can humanize mental illness and spark discussions of how we can better address it in our families and communities. While Sia’s story has a tragic ending, my hope is that by seeing her story, others whose lives are touched by mental illness will have better outcomes." - Kimberlee Bassford, director
Takeaway
Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Festival International du Film Documentaire Oceanien in Tahiti, Before the Moon Falls is essential viewing. A riveting, powerful watch from start to finish.
'Method' Review: Movie Magic Turns Tragic
An unhinged director turns "movie magic" into murder in filmmaker Chandler Balli's latest feature, Method. Taking inspiration from the term "method acting," this horror-comedy follows a group of amateur actors who are unknowingly cast in a low-budget movie with a literal do-or-die ending. A smart script gives this indie feature a strong baseline, which Balli's directorial vision further brings to life.
A Genius, or a Madman?
Ahead of filming the third installment of his horror trilogy, Tapeface, director Derek Ryan (Balli) gathers his newly assembled cast together. He explains the unorthodox guidelines they must follow ahead of filming, which include signing five-year contracts, NDAs, and an immersion clause that carries a $1M fine if broken. Needless to say, Derek is running a tight ship on the set of Tapeface 3. His paranoia doesn't stem from fear that the actors will leak secrets from the set. He knows that's impossible, because they'll all be dead.
Tapeface 3 is Derek's masterpiece, and he will finish the film at any cost. To make his slasher film as realistic as possible, Derek enlists Trevor (Travis Lee Prine), his friend and the film's titular villain, to literally commit murder. As cast members are picked off one by one, paranoia sets in among the remaining cast. Is their director a genius, or a madman? One thing is for sure, they've signed up to star in the role of a lifetime.
A Needle in the Haystack of Low-Budget Horror Films
With an estimated budget of $3,500, Method is a needle in the haystack of low-budget horror films. It's highly aspirational, as Chandler Balli not only confidently directs but also impressively stars in the film as well. The character of Derek Ryan exhibits a delightfully dangerous dichotomy. On one hand, he is a goofball. His explosive tirades are less intimidating as they are pathetic. Clearly, he is dedicated to his art, but being passionate is very different than being professional. However, his untrustworthiness is apparent from the very beginning; at least I personally would second-guess anyone wearing a Kanye "I Feel Like Pablo" t-shirt. Visually, Method has the look and feel of a traditional horror film, primarily using a handheld camera. The soundtrack curation is stellar, giving chaotic energy to an already tense viewing experience.
Takeaway
With Method, Balli proves he is a standout voice among the new generation of indie horror filmmakers. Just as Derek Ryan dreams of his art being forever immortalized in celluloid, Chandler Balli's film will live on in the same way.
'The Veteran' Review: A Story of Struggle and Redemption
Though many in this world have life stories that deserve recognition, this is especially true of veterans. Filmmaker Wilfred La Salle reminds us of the importance of empathy for those who sacrificed for their country with his feature film, The Veteran. Choosing a U.S. Marine as the protagonist in this universal message of fostering compassion for our fellow neighbors, The Veteran shows how a simple act of kindness can change someone's life.
From Deployment to Dependency, a Story of Complicated Struggle
Jose Torres (Yanko Valentin-Perez) is a U.S. Marine who finally reunites with his wife and young son after returning from war. Thinking the worst is behind him, Jose has a new lease on life and looks forward to spending quality time with his loved ones. He never anticipated the devastation that would follow him from a dangerous war zone to his front door. Receiving the news that his wife and son were killed in a car accident sends Jose into a spiral of overwhelm, to the point of being medically prescribed opioids. His doctor is quick to resort to pills to deal with the pain of his loss, when what Jose really needs is a healthy way to cope with his inconsolable guilt and heartbreak.
What started as a treatment becomes a life-shattering dependence. The opioids' addictive nature uncontrollably takes hold of Jose, and their effect is life-altering. He is administratively separated from his world of military service and becomes homeless. Just as Jose is hitting rock bottom, he crosses paths with Maxwell Cade (Lancelot E. Theobald Jr.). Maxwell is the CEO of Blackwood Global Investments with a compassionate heart and sees past Jose's superficial shortcomings. He takes it upon himself to care for Jose, offering him not just opportunities and companionship, but a second chance at life.
A Social Issue Film Made on a Zero-Dollar Budget
The Veteran is the seventh film in seven years by multi-hyphenate creative Wilfred La Salle. As the film's director, writer, producer, and lead cinematographer, his fingerprints are all over this social issue drama. La Salle brought this film to life on a zero-dollar budget, impressively employing guerrilla filmmaking techniques throughout NYC. The performances are equally compelling, especially Yanko Valentin-Perez as Jose. His transformation from war hero to homeless vet feels genuine. As the sole screenwriter, La Salle crafts a compelling narrative that will resonate with all who watch.
Takeaway
Homeless veterans are not looking for a handout, just a hand up. This powerful message is the backbone of The Veteran, a timely drama that sheds light on an important issue. The film debuts on Fox Soul on May 11, 2026.
'A Quiet Storm' Review: Reclaiming Identity Through Dance
The power of dance as a universal language is showcased in filmmaker Benjamin Nicolas' short documentary, A Quiet Storm. Centering around a 14-year-old Krump dance prodigy from suburban Tokyo, A Quiet Storm elegantly explores themes of longing, sacrifice, and passion. The film's message is propelled by beautiful visuals and breathtakingly impressive choreography. It's a compelling watch from start to finish.
Dancing Through Life
Maïto is not your typical teenager. While he navigates the pressures of school and family dynamics like most of his peers, he also juggles a demanding career as a Krump dancer. Krump dance is commonly described as a highly energetic street dance that originated in South Central Los Angeles in the early 2000s. There is a raw and aggressive nature to the movements, which contradicts Maïto's soft-natured personality. Off the dance floor, he is a quiet and introspective kid.
Through an intimate interview with his mother, we learn more about Maïto's backstory. She admits that he grew up quickly due to her needing to care for his deaf sister. In a heartbreaking moment of vulnerability, she confesses that she didn't express her love to Maïto often enough. This is why she believes he got into dancing: as a way to win her attention and praise. Maïto, who goes by the stage name Lil Krow, began dancing at four years old.
Powerful Directorial Decisions Make For an Unforgettable Moment
A Quiet Storm is visually quite stylish. There is an observational quality to the pacing that employs long takes with simple camera setups. This editorial choice immerses the viewer into the scene as opposed to rushing through it, and it works quite well. Another creative directorial decision occurs toward the end of the film. Maïto is dancing for his sister, and his energy is infectious. The moment flips to the POV of his sister, and the film goes silent. This is how she sees her brother, without sound but not without passion. The emotional impact of this moment is powerful.
Director's Statement
"The day my six-year-old daughter started Krumping, I had no idea it would completely reshape my understanding of childhood, identity, and the fundamental need for self-expression. She didn’t know what Krump was, yet something inside her had to come out—raw, unfiltered, urgent. I watched in fascination as her body spoke before her words, telling a story she might not even fully understand yet.
That was when I first discovered Maïto—in a viral YouTube video. He was only eight years old, yet already carried an immense, almost primal rage within him. I immediately saw a reflection of my daughter in him, and in many ways, a reflection of myself. He, too, danced with an undeniable need to express the unspoken. But unlike my daughter, he was growing up in a country where order and silence are valued above all else, where the pressure of school and society can crush individuality. His Krump wasn’t just movement —it was a cry, a survival mechanism, an act of defiance. I wanted to understand him.
A Quiet Storm was born from that need to understand... At its core, it is the story of a mother and son, a silent dialogue where every sacrifice, every glance, speaks volumes... As a father, an artist, and a man, this story resonated with me in a deeply personal way. Maïto reminded me of something essential: sometimes, movement is the only possible response to inner chaos. I hope that A Quiet Storm resonates with anyone who has ever felt that urgent need to express, to affirm, to claim their place in the world. Because sometimes, a single movement can speak louder than words." -Benjamin Nicolas, Director/Producer
Takeaway
A Quiet Storm is not just a story about an impressive dancer. Behind Maïto's talent and skill is a deeply complex family story that tackles themes of identity, artistry, and the universal language of dance. A Quiet Storm first screened at the 2025 San Francisco International Film Festival.
'Beneath Us All' Review: A Story of Resurrection and Survival
A once-dormant evil presence is abruptly unearthed in filmmaker Harley Wallen's independent horror film, Beneath Us All. Spanning centuries and spiritual planes, Beneath Us All blends fantasy with good, old-fashioned thrills. Wallen enlists his regular troupe of actors, including Kaiti Wallen and Yan Birch, to bring this story of resurrection and revenge to life.
Coming Face to Face with the Devil
The film begins by providing a crucial backstory about one man's unfortunate demise in Scandinavia, 912 AD. After being buried, Frey (Birch) is presumed dead and transported to America by a mob of Scandinavian villagers. Fast forward to the present day, and we are introduced to Julie (Angelina Danielle Cama). Julie is a foster child on the cusp of her 18th birthday, and struggles with her home life. Her foster parents are selfish and ignorant of Julie's needs, the opposite of her empathetic nature. She gets along well with her younger foster brother, Stephen (Malachi Myles), who looks to Julie for safety and security. Running parallel to this storyline is a determined caseworker, Rebecca (Kaiti Wallen), who counts Julie and her family as clients.
One night, in an attempt to free herself from the despair of her homelife, Julie runs off into the woods, where she stumbles upon a strange discovery: a Yggdrasil pendant. She unintentionally uses the pendant to resurrect a demonic spirit, disguised as the man from the beginning of the film, Frey. What follows is a bloody trail of chaos and cannibalism, and things get personal when the creature goes after Julie's foster brother. This soon becomes the ultimate test of what she is willing to sacrifice for her family.
A Multi-Award Winning, Full-Bodied Production
Harley Wallen is no stranger to supernatural horror, and Beneath Us All is an epic showcase of his craft. The use of practical effects grounds the film in reality, making the horror beats much more sinister. The screenplay, written by Bret Miller, does an excellent job of balancing both Julie and Rebecca's storylines. Each character has their own independent story arcs, with their eventual crossover feeling organic and unforced. Aiding in the film's overall aesthetic is the full-bodied, uptempo score. Composers Firoze and Kaizad Patel incorporate sweeping choral arrangements, thematically similar to a Hans Zimmer production. Since its release in 2023, Beneath Us All has received nineteen wins and nine nominations at various film festivals.
Takeaway
For an indie feature, Beneath Us All has a large screen presence. Its genre-spanning script, combined with compelling performances and confident direction, makes Beneath Us All a truly haunting tale.
'The Floor Remembers' Review: Capturing a Magical Sense of Nostalgia
Many of us have fond memories of a special place we frequented in our childhood. For those who grew up in Kendall, FL, that place is most likely the local roller rink, Hot Wheels (no correlation to the Mattel matchbox car IP). In the short documentary The Floor Remembers, director Jayme Kaye Gershen captures the magical feeling of nostalgia with this cinematic time capsule of a Miami landmark. The film made its World Premiere at the 2026 Miami Film Festival.
Where Everybody Knows Your Name
Everyone has a story about Hot Wheels. From birthday parties to weddings and even funerals, Hot Wheels, located twenty miles outside of Miami, was the place to be ever since it opened its doors in 1987. Despite the city's continuous change and reinvention over the decades, the local roller rink remained a comforting constant. The funky disco music, the Monday night adults-only free skate, and even the employees have kept the spirit of the rink alive. One of Hot Wheels' long-standing employees, Brenda, acts as the film's narrator. She is definitely qualified to discuss its colorful history. Brenda started working at the rink at 16, and she's now 50. As if her tenure and rollerblade earrings didn't give it away, her life is dedicated to this special place.
Through intimate interviews with previous and current company owners, employees, and patrons, The Floor Remembers acts as a love letter to a cultural institution. The documentary has the feel of a video essay, with collage-style editing and structure. Archival footage blends with modern-day rolling shots, captured by skate cinematographer Jorge Graupera.
Director's Statement
"My work moves across film, photography, sound, and immersive installation, exploring how people connect to one another and to place. I am interested in the emotional patterns that shape identity, and in storytelling as a way of creating access; an entry point for seeing ourselves in others... With The Floor Remembers, I expand this approach through collaboration. Working with the Miami roller rink community, I placed a camera directly in the hands of a regular skater and invited participants to contribute their own images and stories. The film becomes a collective portrait, one shaped from within, capturing a space where memory, movement, and identity continue to circulate." - Jayme Kaye Gershen, director
Takeaway
The Floor Remembers is more than just an homage to a Miami landmark. It acts as a visual memory scrapbook for those who consider this special place a second home. It doesn't matter your background; whether you're a doctor or a drug dealer (apparently, both have been patrons). If you frequent Hot Wheels, you're part of the family.
'The Yellow Balloon: The Curse of Vincent Vile' Review: A Bonkers Fright Fest
Filmmaker Jason D. Morris is not afraid to unleash the beast in the wildly unhinged horror flick The Yellow Balloon. Part grindhouse expose, part supernatural chaos, The Yellow Balloon is a divisive horror-comedy that proudly caters to a niche audience. With a screenplay by Robert Carrera, The Yellow Balloon doesn't take itself too seriously, which is the best way to enjoy this bonkers fright fest. Leave your expectations at the door and prepare yourself for a truly unique viewing experience.
Heartbreak is a Killer
After suffering a devastating breakup, Mia (Justine Leverett) and her friends escape to a remote cabin in the woods so she can clear her head. Mia and her pals, Harper (Shelby Broadnax), Travis (Robert Carrera), and Eli (Justin Jobe), have every intention of making this weekend one of rest and relaxation. However, there are external forces at play that choose savagery over serenity. A disturbing number of yellow balloons seem to appear out of nowhere. Surprisingly, they bring with them a demonic force that the friends struggle to fend off. This leads to the discovery of Ringmaster Vincent Vile (Scott Somers), a creepy carnival figure who is behind the twisted occurrences. Vincent deploys cursed VHS tapes and an army of yellow balloons to incite violence and throw the groups' trust into question, disrupting their friendship dynamic and turning them against each other.
A Disturbing Occult Carnival Nightmare
Those with a fear of clowns or circus-related paraphernalia will want to steer clear of The Yellow Balloon. For those who love the imagery of an occult carnival nightmare, this one's for you. Director Jason D. Morris embraces the film's campy spirit with grotesque body horror, sexual scenarios, and lots of special effects makeup. The Yellow Balloon leans into NSFW moments, as exploding penises and a balloon extraction from a woman's vagina are only the beginning of the madness.
The majority of the film takes place at night, which lends itself to an overall darker color palette. This backdrop sets the scene for the story arc's impending spookiness, which is amplified by a playfully thrilling score. The four leads each have their moments to shine throughout the film, and their authenticity on screen carries more weight than the quality of the performance.
Takeaway
The Yellow Balloon is not your traditional horror film. What we have here is a genre-specific, carnival creature feature that may creep you out more than scare you. That said, however, the commitment to the bit is quite commendable.
'Pittsburgh' Review: An Unexpected Journey of Self-Discovery
A young girl embarks on an unexpected detour, both literally and figuratively, in filmmaker Ali Marsh's short dramedy, Pittsburgh. Set in 1979, Pittsburgh explores the moment of disillusionment for a child who realizes that the adults in her life may not be as dependable as she has been conditioned to believe. Originally devised as a feature-length film, this shortened version of Pittsburgh serves as the preview of a concept story that audiences can hope to see expanded in the near future.
An Unexpected Journey of Self-Discovery
Mints (Delaney Quinn) is a nine-year-old who is wise beyond her years. Her maturity seems to surpass her father's, who has been a basketcase of emotion ever since his divorce from her mother. Post-separation, Mints has had to split her time between both parents, who live hundreds of miles apart. During this recent visit, her father has been especially needy, and Mints can't wait to return to her mother's house. Traveling solo, she boards her flight with the expectation that the worst is behind her. However, the pilot announces that the plane is rerouting to Pittsburgh overnight, as groans of disappointment erupt from the passengers. Mints is annoyed, but faces this unexpected adventure head-on.
Given that she is a minor, Mints is legally left in the care of Leslie (Nadia Quinn), a flight attendant. What transpires after that is a chaotic, emotionally-fueled night complete with her guardian's drunken shenanigans. Mints finds comfort in the presence of a fellow passenger from the plane who resembles a grandmotherly figure, but even this woman's companionship can't alleviate Mints' sudden, life-changing realization: the adults in her life may be older, but that doesn't mean they know better. Mints recognizes that from this point on, she cannot blindly rely on adults. She must be her own protector.
For Fans of Little Miss Sunshine
In Pittsburgh, writer/director Ali Marsh transports audiences back to the 70s with great attention to detail. From the authentic production design and costumes to the overall aesthetic of the film, Pittsburgh feels like a cinematic time capsule. Bringing the story to life is the spunky Delaney Quinn, who perfectly embodies Mints. Mints is a dynamic character; the juxtaposition of her innocence and independence is reminiscent of another fabulous young protagonist, Olive (played by Abigail Breslin), in Little Miss Sunshine. In fact, the film as a whole has a similar tone to the 2006 Academy Award-winning feature.
Director's Statement
"I hope people are moved and entertained by this coming-of-age story. This inflection point in a child’s life when they realize that the adults in the room not only do not have all the answers, but that the child herself might actually have access to a purer font of knowledge than the adults around her. So, it’s a bit heavy in a way, but also, hopefully, somewhat funny!" - Ali Marsh, writer/director
Takeaway
This coming-of-age story is a true indie gem that tackles emotional growth with humor and heart. Pittsburgh will make its World Premiere at the 2026 Cleveland International Film Festival.