'1981' Review: When Boys Become Men
A teenager inadvertently leaves boyhood behind in the slightly provocative, mostly precious coming-of-age short, 1981. Making its World Premiere in the Animated Short film program of the Sundance Film Festival, 1981 tells a nostalgic story with strong artistic capability. Filmmakers Andy and Carolyn London bring the laughs to the screen in this delightfully charming indie film.
A Birthday Surprise He'll Never Forget
In this rotoscope film, which brings hand-drawn and painted images to life over live action footage, a teenager named Douglas gets ready for his upcoming birthday party. It's 1981 in suburban Long Island, New York, and every inch of Douglas' appearance is a reflection of the times. Dressed in metal band t-shirts along with mullets and acne, the 14-year-old appears very unenthusiastic about the day's festivities. As his friends begin to arrive at his parents' house, Douglas remains apathetic. After spending some time roughhousing in the basement, Doug's mother and father interrupt with some news.
His father shares that it's time for Doug and all of his friends to transition from boys to men. What happens next plays out like every teenager's fantasy. The lights dim, and a woman descends the stairs to the Tommy James & the Shondells song 'Crimson and Clover.' She performs an erotic, yet tasteful striptease that leaves Douglas more traumatized than entertained. This birthday surprise is one he'll never forget.
Directors Statement
"Our work begins with story, often the kind that feels dangerous, uncomfortable, or too personal to ignore. We are drawn to lunatics, misfits, and damaged people, mining family history, obsession, addiction, and childhood cruelty. No one is off limits... Since 1999, we’ve worked as writers, directors, animators, and co-founders of London Squared Productions, creating award-winning films that have screened at festivals including Tribeca, Annecy, and Ottawa, and at MoMA’s Talk to Me exhibition. Our latest work, 1981, will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. We push toward the edge in search of honesty. The balance we strive for is cringeworthy awkwardness paired with heartbreaking beauty. We want you to laugh, and we want you to be devastated." - Andy London, Carolyn London
Takeaway
The 80s truly come alive in this animated short, largely due to the stunning artistry. Using palette knives, markers, ballpoint pens, and real textures, the filmmakers recreate a world from 1981 that is incredibly authentic. It's easy to feel as if we're in the room with Douglas and internalizing his embarrassment second hand. The film's simple strokes and clean lines evoke a visceral sense of feelings and emotions that harken back to the universal experience of early teen years. In the most succinct way, 1981 effortlessly captures the beauty and sometimes complicated reality of teenage desire.
'The Quiet Time' Review: Success Meets Solitude
What would you do to carve out a little quiet time for your passion? This is the root question of filmmaker Matthew Paris's new short film, The Quiet Time. The writer/director/producer/actor takes a minimalist approach in this ultra-indie film, using one location in this pared-down production. It's a simple film that complements its simple message: Quieting external input can give way to creative output.
Success Meets Solitude
The film opens with close-ups of Americana-inspired home decor. A framed photo of a bald eagle, a perfectly steamed recliner chair, and a Mount Rushmore book are among these sentimental items. The silence is loud as the camera then cuts to a blank computer screen. As the monitor stares back at Jonathan (Paris), who hovers his hands above the keyboard, he appears deep in thought. He finds that the endless possibilities of a blank page can be overwhelming and daunting.
Writer's block gets the better of Jonathan as he struggles to voice his thoughts. "Why is the first page always the hardest?" he says aloud. Cut to 20 minutes later, Jonathan has removed himself from his office and sits quietly and contemplatively in the living room. This seems to unlock a creative spark, as the next scene shows Jonathan deeply focused on creating his new draft.
Takeaway
Sometimes, removing oneself from an overwhelming situation is the only way to get through a roadblock and move forward. In The Quiet Time, Matthew Paris explores this coping mechanism in a very intimate setting: his home. The production is very minimal; two music moments and a short monologue make up the entirety of the film's audible moments. The camerawork is static, giving a sense of groundedness and stability. For a short film that is less than two minutes long, there is only so much "story" to tell. However, Paris successfully creates a simple call and response that serves as a gentle reminder to find the beauty in taking things slow.
'Legend Has It' Review: A Raunchy and Riotous Affair
A simple mistaken room number lands a stripper in hot water in filmmaker Thomas Lorber's short film, Legend Has It. Packed with a witty script and commanding performances, this raunchy and riotous action comedy short is a hoot and a half, making its World Premiere at the 2025 Sapporo International Short Film Festival.
Locked and Loaded
Legend Has It stars Jon Cor as a male stripper who shows up at the wrong hotel room, finding it filled with French criminals rather than the expected group of females looking forward to his edgy entertainment. The film begins with a mob boss (Tom Morton) interrogating a group of men, desperately seeking out who among them is a rat. Intent on finding the source, the boss calls for reinforcements in the form of an armed assassin. Coincidentally, Adam (Cor) receives a late-night text from his boss that his "services" are requested at the same hotel. Adam is a stripper and assumes that he will be entertaining a room full of ladies for the night. However, when he arrives at room #1414, a middle-aged man answers the door. Adam is confused, but goes along with it. Quickly, he realizes this is not going to be a typical evening.
Assuming Adam is the hit man, the mob boss, confusingly, tries to make sense of why this assassin is grinding and unbuttoning his shirt. Comedy ensues as the audience figures out that this is a case of mistaken identity before the characters do. Adam was actually supposed to go to room #1404, not #1414. The rest of the film is a humorous battle between a male stripper and a mob boss. Despite the unusual circumstances, this may be Adam's best performance yet.
Using a Simple Misunderstanding as a Comedic Tool
Legend Has It pulses with electricity, due in large part to the phenomenal performances. Jon Cor exudes confidence and leading man energy, reminiscent of Brad Pitt in Apple TV+'s Wolfs. Director Thomas Lorber assembles a stellar cast and crew to bring this short film to life. He presents a tight-knit story that packs a big punch, making the film seem much bigger than its seemingly limited indie budget.
Director's Statement
"I grew up in France, and when I moved to North America, I spent years trying to blend in — softening my accent, adjusting how I worked, hiding the parts of me that felt “too foreign.” Over time, I realized my strength wasn’t assimilation, but collision: the clash of cultures, languages, humor, and identity. Today, I stand proud of both my heritage and my new home. I wanted this film to feel like a cinematic handshake between the two. With Legend Has It, I want to give the audience an action comedy where the heart hits just as hard as the punches. This isn’t just a film I want to make, it’s the story of who I’ve become."
Takeaway
Unapologetically bold and laugh-out-loud funny, Legend Has It fully embraces both spectacle and absurdity, and will most definitely keep you engaged during its 17-minute run time.
'Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes' Review: A Promising Future Cut Short
A young and aspiring baseball player's dreams are horrifically dashed in the short drama, Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes. Director Marcellus Cox emphasises the unpredictability and fragility of life by showing how it can change in an instant. Inspired by true events, Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Jamarcus (Duane Ervin) is a talented high-school baseball prospect who must deal with instability in his family life. After losing his grandfather and subsequently having no parents to speak of, he is solely cared for by his grandmother (Ruthie Austin). She is Jamarcus's biggest supporter and source of encouragement, and it's her strength that carries him through the hard times. Despite her love and affection, she is limited in her ability to fully provide the guidance her grandson needs as he navigates the complexities of adulthood. This is why she encourages Jamarcus to spend the day with his new mentor from the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program.
Initially, Jamarcus is less than enthusiastic. He doesn't think talking to Jasper (Stephen Cofield Jr.) will do any good, and it will only distract him from baseball. However, after meeting Jasper, Jamarcus realizes that his life is about to become much more enriched by having him as a mentor and friend. Jasper not only sets up Jamarcus with a Dodgers talent scout contact, but he also relates to his new younger friend on a deeper level. The two become vulnerable and introspective, and it's a welcome conversation that inspires Jamarcus. However, this lovely day is met with unthinkable tragedy. A brutal attack outside of Jamarcus's grandmother's house claims a life, and this senseless act of violence leaves devastation in its wake.
A Meditative and Humanist Film
Writer/director Marcellus Cox crafts a meditative and humanist film that beautifully pays homage to the original story. The pacing is slow and breathy, almost ethereal. Duane Ervin gives a phenomenal performance as Jamarcus, highlighting both his sensitivities and strengths. Playing opposite is Stephen Cofield Jr., who equally commands the screen with his grace and confidence. Cox expertly blends performance and craft in Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes, resulting in a powerful cinematic statement.
Takeaway
The shocking loss of an innocent young black man due to violence is a frighteningly common pattern in America. Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes shows how these tragedies ripple through a community, leaving unthinkable devastation in its wake. No young person should have to worry about not living long enough to realize their dreams. Marcellus Cox's portrayal of this tragedy is a sobering reflection of humanity. It also serves as a reminder to try to seek out the good amidst the ugliness and chaos of the world.
'Better Together: Furman’s Championship Quest' Review: Dream Big
There truly is no better feeling than watching a classic underdog success story, especially when it takes place on the basketball court. If you agree, then get ready to get hyped in filmmaker Richmond Weaver's five-part docuseries about the Furman University men's basketball team, Better Together: Furman's Championship Quest. A winning combination for sports fans and cinephiles alike, Better Together brings an electric story of triumph and perseverance to the small screen.
Dream Big
Each episode of Better Together runs roughly 25-minutes long. The first episode kicks off dramatically with Furman and their rival, Chattanooga, tied 61-61 in overtime. A Furman player makes a crucial layup, putting the team ahead by two points. But then, the unthinkable happens. A Chattanooga player runs down the court with three seconds left and sends up a Hail Mary shot at the three-point line. Much to the shock, awe, and utter disbelief of the players and crowd, it goes in. Furman loses by a single point. It's a devastating loss that knocks Furman out of the Southern Conference Tournament Championship, which they haven't won since 1980.
The rest of the episode, as well as subsequent episodes, focus on the team's rebuilding after such a startling loss. At the time of filming, Furman is in the middle of one of the longest droughts in college basketball history. Despite this incredible frustration, the team is determined to have a different outcome next season. Led by their inspiring head coach Bob Richey, whose on-court knowledge is just as impressive as his locker room talk, these underdogs once again find themselves on the cusp of a SoCon Tournament Championship after 43 years as a Cinderella team.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Better Together: Furman's Championship Quest is a fast-paced, high-quality series that hooks you from the very beginning. It's an engaging viewing experience that equally focuses on team dynamics both on and off the court. Tensions rise, emotions flow, and energy soars throughout the entire 144-minute runtime. Director Richmond Weaver doesn't reinvent the wheel as far as the typical documentary production style; his choices are traditional. But this familiar format works well here, as the surprises and action moments come from the story itself. Further aiding the intensity is the score by Adam Tune, which is anthemic and bold.
Takeaway
If you loved HBO's Winning Time or Netflix's Last Chance U, you'll find much to enjoy in this 5-episode limited series. The series recently received a Southeast EMMY Nomination for Best Sports Documentary.
'Them That's Not' Review: Breaking Through Emotional Avoidance
The feeling of isolation can be painful, especially during the holidays. Even when surrounded by family and friends, a sense of disconnect can overpower an otherwise joyous occasion. In filmmaker Mekhai Lee's powerful short film, Them That's Not, this identity of being an outsider is told through the lens of empathy and grace. The film, running a concise 18 minutes, won the Gold Hugo award for Best Live Action Short at the 2025 Chicago International Film Festival.
Breaking Through Emotional Avoidance
Drea (Angel Theory) is a struggling poet, sensitive to the world around her. Her quiet demeanor is in stark contrast to her family's larger-than-life personality, which is vividly on display during a wake at her grandmother's house. Drea, an introspective and proud queer, artistic, and deaf young woman, can't help but feel distanced from her relatives. Furthermore, her family's lack of effort to become knowledgeable in ASL makes it difficult to engage in even the most basic communication. Drea interprets their nonexistent effort as a symbol of her self-worth, prompting her to self-isolate to numb the pain.
During this time at her grandmother's, Drea unexpectedly encounters her estranged father, Samuel (Biko Eisen-Martin). He is 20 years into a 25-year prison sentence, released for the day on a furlough to say goodbye to his late mother. Drea and Samuel are essentially strangers, but their blood connection and shared love for the family matriarch are the catalyst that gives them a path toward reconciliation.
Stunning Attention to Detail and Craft
What stands out most in writer/director Mekhai Lee's film is the overall craft. Impressive sound design thoroughly articulates Drea's experience of being hard of hearing. Conversations between her and her family members sound as if she's underwater and struggling to make sense of every word and syllable. Them That's Not is a film driven by sound, both its presence and absence. The final scene ends with a cover of Billie Holiday's "God Bless the Child" performed by Lo Steele, which hits all the right notes.
Director's Statement
"I set out to tell this story at the passing of my own grandmother when faced with how isolating grief in a family setting could be, especially for those who are closer to the deceased. I found connective tissue in that isolation amongst communities, i.e., identifying as queer in your heteronormative family, identifying as Hard of Hearing in your entirely Hearing family. Thus, Billie Holliday’s song, “God Bless the Child,” commissioned to this film by Concord Publishing and Newfest Film Festival, became the quintessential tune to bring this film to life. “God Bless the Child” heralds that isolation, and I was keen on flipping the message of the song to be one that instead reminds its listener of a trusted community. That “our own” can rest in those around us whom we love... even if they’re the most unexpected source of solace."
Takeaway
Anchored by strong performances that reach a climax in a stunning final scene, Them That's Not is full of empathy and warmth. Sharp visuals by cinematographer Sade Ndya create an absorbing viewing experience, as well as a highly memorable film.
'Nothing Solid' Review: A Mystery Illness Gets the Hollywood Treatment
Art imitates life in filmmaker Sharisse Zeroonian's feature-length medical mystery, Nothing Solid. The writer/director draws inspiration from her battle with cyclic vomiting syndrome–yes, a real disorder–to create a truly unique and personal exploration of living with an incurable illness. This unexplained disorder, which is characterized by recurrent, prolonged attacks of severe nausea and vomiting, is now getting the Hollywood treatment. In the first film of its kind about this specific disorder, Nothing Solid is a no-frills independent film that highlights the messiness of young adulthood.
Growing (Up) Pains
Nikki, played by Zeroonian, is a 25-year-old woman who battles mysterious vomiting episodes linked to her anxiety. Her demeanor is similar to Lena Dunham's "Hannah" in Girls, meaning she's a late bloomer struggling to get her life together. As if living with an uncontrollable illness isn't bad enough, Nikki simultaneously deals with increasing family tension. This includes an overprotective mom who believes her daughter lacks the maturity and ability to be truly independent. But Nikki is an adult and realizes that it's time for her to start acting like one.
Her support system comes in the form of her therapist, who helps her see the connection between her emotions and her physical symptoms. Through frank and candid conversation, he challenges Nikki to address the issues that are within her control to improve her situation. However, Nikki continues to vacillate between facing her demons and remaining in her familiar cycle of distress.
An Education on a Rare Condition
Zeroonian's medical condition is so rare that its cinematic portrayal has made national headlines. For more context, read the article from TODAY, "Woman, 29, Lives With Mysterious Vomiting Illness, Throws Up For Days." While this headline may read as the logline of a horror film, Nothing Solid is no such movie. There is a heavy dependence on dialogue and intimate character interactions, and (thankfully) limited visual sickness. Generous screen time is given to Nikki and her therapist, whose scenes involve more word vomit than actual vomit. To this end, the script does a wonderful job of highlighting raw and authentic moments between an anxious patient and her wise clinician.
From a production standpoint, Zeroonian makes the most of her microbudget. Her portrayal of Nikki is empathetic; despite her dire situation, she seems to find the humor in the little things. This makes her character an easy one to root for and not just sympathize with as a victim of her circumstances. On the technical side, Nothing Solid would benefit from a more thorough sound mix, as some scenes suffer from poor audio. To that point, a stronger or more utilized score would have also been a nice touch to complement the abundance of dialogue.
Takeaway
While filmmaking may not be the cure to Sharisse Zeroonian's real-life illness, it can definitely act as a therapeutic release. As a viewer, witnessing Nikki's world and her struggles makes for an eye-opening experience. Despite the protagonist's (and filmmaker's) harsh reality, this semi-autobiographical film leans into its inherent dark comedy genre. Zeroonian crafts a film that is not only educational but also fun to watch.
'How I Spent My Summer Vacation' Review: You Only Live Once
For most thirteen-year-old girls, the biggest worry is about making friends at school. Or, trying to keep up with the latest trends. In filmmaker Kenneth R. Frank's How I Spent My Summer Vacation, the young protagonist has bigger issues on her mind. This tenderly told coming-of-age film spends the summer with Grace, a teenager who struggles with the anxiety of her own mortality.
You Only Live Once
Grace (Raquel Sciacca) is a young girl who loves routine. Having control over an outcome is a way to ease her fragile mind, which is why structure has become increasingly more important, as life's disruptions become more frequent. Grace is also entering the eighth grade next year, which is already proving to be problematic. Her younger brother Richie's (Dawson Sciacca) disruptive behavior in class makes things difficult for Grace and her mother (Christina Elise Perry) to handle. Needless to say, everyone is looking forward to a break during summer vacation. Grace can only keep her sights set on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Galapagos Islands with her dad (Chris Mollica), which she has been planning for years. Still, an ever-present sense of fear creeps into this otherwise exciting upcoming trip.
Plans are disrupted, however, once news of her grandfather's (Jerry Colpitts) illness spreads. Grace and her family move to Long Island for the summer to care for him. Straying from her original expectation and into the unknown is a scary thing for Grace to accept, but it's exactly the thing that pushes her to explore a whole new world of possibilities. Through unexpected challenges and newly formed relationships, Grace finally confronts her anxieties and fears. She soon realizes that life is too short to worry about strict routines and playing it safe. After all, you only live once, so instead of fearing death, Grace learns to embrace life.
A Traditional Coming of Age Film with Heart
How I Spent My Summer Vacation is writer/director Kenneth R. Frank's third feature film. He tackles the themes of adolescent curiosity and fears in such a precious and nuanced way. The script tackles traditional coming-of-age themes, led by an empathetic performance by Raquel Sciacca. Her sensitivities are palpable, similar to Elsie Fisher's performance in Bo Burnham's 2018 film Eighth Grade. For an independent feature, How I Spent My Summer Vacation is a solid execution. What could have enhanced the film's onscreen charisma is a smoother dialogue flow between characters, whose interactions, at times, can come across as slightly robotic and unnatural. The film could have also benefited from a more consistent score, instead of mainly relying on it as a transition device between scenes.
Director's Statement
"The story for this film is rooted in a personal experience I have long wanted to examine: the death of my grandfather when I was eleven years old. While this period was my first intimate contact with death, it also seems, in retrospect, to be my entry into the world of adults. In this regard, there are then two periods of my life: everything before my grandfather’s death and then everything after it... And so, sitting behind the camera on this film, I found myself directing two of my own experiences: that of my own younger self and that of my current reality as a father... This examination of my own past (and my own present) has been a most satisfying artistic experience, and I am proud to share this film."
Takeaway
The biggest lesson in the film is a universal one, a powerful sentiment that bears repeating. As Grace's father says, “It’s okay to be scared, but you can’t let fear keep you from doing the things you want.” This film offers audiences a reminder that the purpose of life isn't to live small; rather, it's to live out loud.
'A Week' Review: Revenge is a Dish Best Served Hot
Seven days is all it takes for one woman to reach her breaking point in filmmaker Tony Rakshith's short film, A Week. This intimate, micro-budget independent film chronicles a week in the life of Rebecca, a waitress who is facing the return of her abusive husband. The film won Silver at the Independent Shorts Awards and premiered at the Oscar-qualifying LA Shorts International Film Festival. It continues to make the rounds on the festival circuit.
Revenge is a Dish Best Served Hot
The film begins on a Monday, and Rebecca (Neva Leoncini) is already facing a difficult day ahead. She tells her colleague at Cadillac Jack's diner that her volatile husband will be coming home after spending four years in prison. Since his incarceration, Rebecca has been living peacefully, but his impending release sends chills down her spine. Her worst fears come true when her husband (Amir Yassami) suddenly appears at the diner, unannounced and threatening.
The film unfolds over the course of several days, with her husband growing increasingly agitated as time passes. On Thursday morning, Rebecca shows up to work with a bruise on her eye. She claims to have fallen down the stairs, but her boss (James Tolley) knows the real culprit is likely her husband. On Sunday morning, he's back at the diner again, but this time it's different. After offering him a plate of hot pancakes, Rebecca smirks as he begins to choke. Her revenge is all going according to plan.
Director's Statement
"This film was born from a simple yet ambitious idea: to create something that is both fun and profoundly serious at the same time. In a world often divided between light-hearted escapism and heavy drama, I wanted to blend the two, crafting a story where laughter and tension coexist, reflecting the absurd complexities of real life. Suspense forms the backbone of the narrative. I built it deliberately through the structure: careful pacing, escalating stakes, and unexpected turns that keep audiences on edge. At the same time, comedy emerges organically from the actors' improvisations. By giving them freedom to play within the scenes, we captured spontaneous, authentic moments of humor that feel fresh and unpredictable, turning potentially dark situations into opportunities for wry smiles or outright laughs.
Ultimately, I hope viewers experience that rare thrill of being surprised by joy in the midst of unease. This project is a reminder that life’s most serious moments can also be its funniest and vice versa. It’s an invitation to laugh uncomfortably, question deeply, and embrace the chaos."
Takeaway
A Week pays homage to the goriness of Tarantino films, while managing to stay contained within the micro-budget space. The production takes place in one location and features a very small cast, resulting in a tight-knit narrative from start to finish. Most notably, Tony Rakshith's directing ability proves that you can tell a very compelling story with limited resources.
'The Elephant in the Room' Review: Finding Mr. Right (Literally)
Are political differences enough to end an otherwise great relationship? That is the conundrum filmmaker Erik Bork spotlights in his red-blue romantic comedy, The Elephant in the Room. Both lighthearted in nature and contemporary in its themes, Bork uses humor to look at very real and complex issues facing couples today. As if dating in Los Angeles isn't hard enough, adding political tension makes for a complicated connection in these divided times.
Finding Mr. Almost Right
The film takes place in Los Angeles during December 2020, a time when COVID-19 is still a threat and dating remains a somewhat risky endeavour. Leah (Alyssa Limperis) is a proud progressive woman who believes she has finally found the perfect guy. After a quick flirty exchange on Christmas Day with Vincent (Sean Kleier), Leah is smitten. He's handsome, charming, and witty. On paper, he's perfect; however, things take a dramatic, if not horrifying, turn when she discovers he was a Trump voter.
Still, not ready to give up hope, Leah launches a mission to fix this “problem." She feels cautiously optimistic that she will be able to shift his perspective and get him to align with her values so they can work past these fundamental differences. However, after Vincent shares that he is planning to attend the Washington D.C. protest on January 6th with his right-wing grandmother, Leah believes that all hope is lost. Her vision of this dream man is turning into a nightmare, but it may not be too late to change his mind once and for all.
Divided We Stand?
Though not technically a "horror film," The Elephant in the Room does portray one woman's worst-case scenario. Written & directed by Erik Bork, the film is a funny and smart exploration of political polarization that genuinely caters to a non-partisan audience. Leah and Vincent's political tiffs bring up interesting points, ones that both sides of the aisle should be able to acknowledge as valid. It is appropriate to draw the line at the January 6th riots, which the film allows audiences to do without much convincing.
Director Statement
"My idea for the film originally was that political differences in the age of Trump could be a great 'complication' for a potential romantic comedy. As I began raising money to make the film, and meeting people from organizations concerned with trying to do something about political polarization, I started to feel heartened that they thought this film is the kind of thing we need more of today - where people from opposite sides talk to each other and have an incentive to find common ground.
Although that conflict is explored mostly comedically in the film, I do recognize it as a serious issue - the huge divides between the "two sides" in our culture. And while I mainly hope the film entertains and engages audiences as a story, I also like thinking that it will spark conversations about this ever-present issue in people's lives today, as it has done during all its screenings thus far."
Takeaway
Lead actor Alyssa Limperis steals the spotlight with her authenticity and bubbly demeanour. Her chemistry with co-star Sean Kleier and supporting actor Dominic Burgess is strong, and gives The Elephant in the Room a real blockbuster feel. No matter what side you lean politically, there is much to admire in this charming indie feature.
'Hamnet' Review: Shakespeare in Mourning
Hamnet, at its core, is a story about suffering and silence. It is also a story of perseverance, maternal ferocity, and human connection. Through mesmerizing visuals and striking performances, Academy Award-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao tells the powerful story that inspired Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Hamlet. Hamnet is an emotional tour de force that will have you longing for your mother's embrace.
Born From Pain, Birthing an Artistic Masterpiece
Hamnet takes place in the 16th century in rural England. Paul Mescal plays William Shakespeare, a struggling Latin tutor who is besotted with Agnes (Jessie Buckley), a free-spirited outsider. They are each other's twin flames, who quickly marry and start a family. Their relationship is unconventional but strong; their mutual support encourages harmony and love inside and outside of the home. Always fond of William's writing, Agnes inspires her husband to pursue his creative ambitions in London, so William takes the opportunity, delves into the theater, and quickly becomes a successful playwright.
Back home, Agnes feels his absence tremendously. Their children, Susanna, Judith, and Hamnet, particularly mourn his presence. Agnes does the best she can to keep her children happy and healthy, but when a horrific tragedy strikes, her maternal fortitude and confidence are shaken to the core. Agnes and William's once-unwavering bond is put to the test, as well as their roles of spouse and caretaker. However, William turns this shared pain into art as he sets the stage for the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Hamlet.
To Be or Not to Be
Chloé Zhao (Nomadland, The Rider) knows how to sensitively observe moments of deep reflection, and the same is true here. While the film is a slow burn, the journey is never dull. Beautiful cinematography by DP Łukasz Żal brings this old English world to life in vivid detail. Aiding in the emotional storytelling is a quietly stirring score by composer Max Richter. Yes, it is a bit overplayed to sync one of his most famous works, On The Nature of Daylight, in the finale scene, but Hamnet can get away with it. The final pieces of the puzzle are the phenomenal performances by Buckley and Mescal. Raw, animalistic, and deeply human all at once, they give the film a life well beyond the two-hour runtime. Their intensity will stay with you for a long time.
Director Statement
Says Chloé Zhao: "I don’t often have words to describe why I choose a project. I’m often guided by instinct, a tight pull on my heart center. Stories appear in my life as if they have chosen me, and I have no choice but to surrender to them. Hamnet came into my life like a whisper that grew into a hurricane. By the end of the journey, I was tenderized. I had truly experienced what it feels like to live with an open heart in the eye of a storm - the beauty, the pain, the thrill at the edge of annihilation, and the silence."
Takeaway
Universally considered an early awards contender following its debut at the Telluride Film Festival, Hamnet is poetic cinema. It dutifully crafts a complex tale of love, loss, and the healing power of art and creativity.
Exclusive: Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch Debuts Track from 'H is for Hawk'
Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch's score took audiences on a journey through a tapestry of big emotions in the 2023 drama, All of Us Strangers. Using a mixture of synths and strings, she effortlessly evokes the “texture” of memory. Before that, she leaned into the traditional classical genre in Living, the 2022 drama starring Bill Nighy. Her most recent work soars once again in filmmaker Philippa Lowthorpe’s H is for Hawk. Using a string ensemble, she crafts an expansive, yet unforced piece that acts as a sonic meditation on grief, nature, and the father-daughter bond.
Inspired by Helen Macdonald’s beloved memoir, H is for Hawk stars Emmy, SAG, and Golden Globe award winner Claire Foy (The Crown) as a grieving woman who finds renewed purpose through falconry. After the sudden death of her father (Brendan Gleeson), Helen (Foy) loses herself in the memories of their time birding and exploring the natural world together. To navigate her profound loss, she turns to training a wild goshawk named Mabel. As she teaches Mabel to hunt and to fly, Helen discovers how deeply she has neglected her own emotions.
EXCLUSIVE: Cinemacy is proud to debut ‘Feathers’ from Roadside Attractions’ H is for Hawk, below:
The Ivor Novello–nominated composer initially conceived the soundtrack as a small chamber piece. However, to match the film's emotional depth, the music grew into a 12-piece string ensemble. The result is what we hear in Feathers: an organic acoustic sound that embodies the film’s exhilarating sense of emotional release. She uses techniques like heavy detuning, extended bowing, and abstract verbal direction to shape the music. This gives the sound an animalistic quality that almost feels as if it's breathing. Using minimalist instruments, Levienaise-Farrouch crafts a sound that is so wonderfully wild, strange, and alive.
H is for Hawk will have a limited run in mid-December. The film opens theatrically on January 23, 2026.
'It Happened In August' Review: Navigating Life's Unpredictability
One woman gets a second chance at fulfilling her lifelong dream in filmmaker Artima Sakulkoo's short drama, It Happened In August. Written, directed by, and starring Sakulkoo, this inspirational story explores the ups and downs of navigating life's unpredictability. The film made its premiere at the 2025 Reeling LGBTQ Film Festival.
No Dream is Impossible
The film opens on Aimme (Artima Sakulkoo), a queer Thai immigrant, who receives a life-changing phone call. On the other end of the line is her brother, informing her that their mother is dying. Moments later, Aimme's girlfriend Sandra (Linsy Segarra), unaware of the devastating news Aimme has just received, excitedly shares her latest professional acting win. It takes everything in Aimme to appear happy for Sandra, all the while fighting an overwhelming feeling of sadness, jealousy, and defeat.
Time passes, and when we meet Aimme again, she is single and living with her brother. Since their mother’s passing, Aimme ignores her dreams of being a successful artist. Instead, she works at a local Thai restaurant to cover the mounting bills. One late-August evening, Sandra, Aimme's now ex-girlfriend, walks into her restaurant. They are both caught off guard yet welcome the unexpected reunion. Sandra, a professional acting coach, effortlessly brings out the spark in Aimme that had been dormant for too long. As old feelings resurface, Aimme must navigate family responsibilities and her longing for a life in the arts, discovering the courage to open herself to that possibility again.
Director Statement
Says Artima Sakulkoo, "It Happened in August is a deeply personal film. I lost my mother at the same time I was discovering my queerness. For years, I never felt fully comfortable in my body or my sexuality. Making this film became a way to honor that journey and reconnect with the parts of myself I had kept small. One of the most meaningful discoveries I made as a filmmaker was finding my audience. This film is for queer people and for Thai immigrants in the U.S.—for anyone yearning to be seen, loved, and understood. It’s for those whose stories deserve to exist on screen."
Takeaway
Navigating family dynamics, exploring self-identity, and rekindling old relationships is a trifecta of emotional challenges. It Happened in August doesn't shy away from these difficulties, but reflects the growth potential that can be achieved in challenging times. Artima Sakulkoo leads with vulnerability and heart both in front of and behind the camera. The result sheds light on experiences that are deeply personal to Sakulkoo and, most likely, will resonate with audiences too.
'Flight 182' Review: Relives the Moments Before Unspeakable Tragedy
Filmmaker Rippin Sindher revisits one of the world's deadliest airline attacks in her heartbreaking short film, Flight 182. Famed producer Ridley Scott also lends his expertise to the indie production as an executive producer. This partnership adds immediate leverage and authenticity to the film's visibility. Turning personal tragedy into a sign of support and remembrance, Flight 182 is a sincere and poignant homage to the victims of this horrific act of violence.
Reliving the Moments Before Unspeakable Tragedy
Prior to September 11th, 2001, Air India Flight 182 was the deadliest terrorist attack in the world. 329 people lost their lives in the tragedy, including Sindher's uncle, to whom the filmmaker dedicated the film. The 17-minute short, Flight 182, details the intimate moments shared by a family shortly before the patriarch boards the doomed flight. It's June 22, 1985, in Vancouver, BC. Jeet (Gurinder Sindher) is a devoted husband, torn between visiting his dying mother in India and heeding warnings from a separatist group seeking revenge against the Canadian government.
His wife, Mandeep (Sundeep Morrison), doesn't want him to go. Her intuition tells her something is off, and she is already feeling overwhelmed taking care of their young daughter. Despite this, Jeet decides to take the trip, considering it may be his last opportunity to see his mother. What follows, unfortunately, is a tragic outcome that impacts the entire family.
Director Statement
Says Rippin Sindher, "At its core, Flight 182 is about humanity and empathy. I hope it inspires audiences to reflect on the ripple effects of violence and the resilience of families left behind. It is a deeply personal film too. My uncle, Daljit Singh Grewal, was one of the 329 lives lost on Air India Flight 182. For nearly 40 years, this tragedy has been overshadowed by race politics, geopolitical tensions, and mishandled evidence, depriving it of the recognition it deserves. I chose to make this film as an act of remembrance to fight against historical erasure."
Takeaway
It's clear through the intimate storytelling that Flight 182 is Sindher's way of holding space for grief, love, and generational strength. The film is not so much a vehicle for entertainment but rather an outlet to explore the emotional core of this unimaginable loss. This devastating event remains the largest mass killing in Canadian history. Flight 182 had its World Premiere at the 2024 International South Asian Film Festival. Further screening options are pending.
'Mariana Ant' Review: A Creative Homage to a Spanish Fabel
Drawing on the wild and wacky works of artists Buñuel, Lorca, and Dalí as inspiration, Mariana Ant is nothing short of a visual dream. Filmmakers Maite Uzal and Rubén Pascual Tardío carefully craft a fantastical world in their satiric fable of a contrasting dynamic between mother and daughter. Set to lively music and featuring a colorful palette, Mariana Ant is an uptempo and creative homage to the folklore and culture of Spain.
A Surreal Once Upon a Time
Opening with the quintessential "Once Upon a Time...", Mariana Ant is set in the fictional working-class town of Thorbat. Here, a mother and daughter's growing tension comes to a head when their differences become too big to ignore. Both women survive by begging local townspeople for provisions; it's a hustle that Mother (Maite Uzal) enjoys, and her daughter (Úrsula Tomás Abril) despises. Mother is lazy and hopes to become rich without lifting a finger. Her daughter, on the other hand, is hardworking and empathetic. She admires the grit and drive of worker ants, wishing that she could join them. One afternoon, mother and daughter come across a mysterious woman who is able to grant their wishes. However, their vision of happily ever after doesn't turn out to be the storybook ending they expected.
Director's Statement
Says Maite Uzal: "Many who watch Mariana Ant will indeed say that 'I have no sense. That’s when I’ll say, 'But I don’t care.' In creating and producing this film, I was fiercely determined to do things the way I thought I should do them. Regardless of trends, desires to please, political correctness, or algorithms. With that in mind... I have only aspired to be true to myself. What you have in front of you is exactly what played in the universe of my imagination. Fueled by the sincere and most heartfelt trepidation of an artist who takes full responsibility for remaining forever a child."
Takeaway
Directors Maite Uzal and Rubén Pascual Tardío playfully infuse a comical edge into the surreal world of Mariana Ant. The result is a zany fable about the consequences that can come with getting what you want. There are moments when the filmmakers seem to prioritize aesthetics over storytelling. However, this 16-minute short film embraces its unconventional nature and never gives us a dull moment. Mariana Ant played earlier this year at the 2025 Cerdanya Film Festival in Catalonia, Spain.