'Bijupirá' Review: The Sea and a Sense of Belonging
The sea provides a poignant life lesson in filmmaker Eduardo Boccaletti's short drama, Bijupirá. Making its World Premiere at the 2025 Avanca Film Festival, Bijupirá is a soulful and meditative exploration of quiet estrangement within a family unit, and the world at large.
Lost at Sea Gives Way for Reflection
10-year-old Tomé (Enzo Gois) spends his days on a small trawler boat with Reinaldo (Heraldo de Deus), a fisherman. Day in and day out, he watches Reinaldo, nicknamed "The King of the Sea," tirelessly chase and catch fish, attempting to evade him. It's a trade that supports his livelihood. One afternoon, Reinaldo catches a small, strange fish called Remora. Tomé is curious about the animal's origins, especially because of Reinaldo's disgust towards it. He tells Tomé it's a useless fish that can't be sold or eaten and is commonly found attached to whale sharks. This sentiment strongly impacts Tomé, as he forms an analogy to his own life by seeing himself as a Remora: parasitic and dependent on Reinaldo as his provider.
After reflecting on his own existence, Tomé makes the drastic decision to get on a dinghy boat and release the rope. He drifts out to sea alone, and the day quickly turns to night. Meanwhile, Reinaldo is unaware of this dangerous and potentially dire situation. Once he discovers Tomé is not on the boat, he panics and desperately tries to find him.
Director's Statement
Says Eduardo Boccaletti: "My films have always sought to portray the feeling of being an outcast. The feeling of seeing things from the outside, a quiet estrangement from a world that feels both familiar and foreign... In Bijupirá, I was finally able to bring these universes together, translating them into images that reflect both the immensity the eyes can see and the depth the characters feel. It is, for me, a redemption and an embrace of the outsider who, at last, finds a place of belonging."
close up of whale sharks
Takeaway
Stunning cinematography by DP Renan Benedito makes for a breathtaking visual experience. The vastness of the ocean is captured in exquisite detail and heightened by the rich, deep color grade. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring shots are the underwater closeups of the whale shark, a majestic creature that commands the screen. Backed by powerful performances by its two lead actors, Bijupirá is an intimate story about quiet encounters that define our existence.
'Seeds From Kivu' Review: A Compassionate Doctor Turns Tragedy into Hope
The award-winning independent short Seeds from Kivu is a small film, but it carries a big message. The first European film screened at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the Vatican, and the European Parliament, Seeds from Kivu opens our eyes to the horrific and ongoing sexual violence against women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The result is an explosive exposé that acts as part humanitarian rally cry, and part investigative journalism.
A Compassionate Doctor Turns Tragedy into Hope
Seeds from Kivu focuses on the work of Dr. Denis Mukwege, world-renowned gynecologist, human rights activist, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who runs the local hospital. In the opening scenes, several women arrive at the hospital after being gang-raped by local militiamen. Mukwege explains that the hospital opened in 1999 to prevent maternal mortality. However, doctors were noticing that most of the women coming to the clinic weren't there to give birth. Rather, they were suffering from the aftermath of violent gang rapes. He recalls treating patients as old as 80 and as young as 6 months, a horrific statistic that is enough to send tangible chills down your spine.
Not only do the women experience physical torture by their abusers, but a great deal of emotional and psychological torture as well. After addressing their trauma and wounds, which often include a detached uterus and vaginal canal tears, they are confronted with whether to accept the babies they have given birth to as a result of the rapes. It's a heavy dilemma that comes with unimaginable stress and confusion. The main takeaway to this point is that regardless of how they came into the world, these children are the seeds of the future. They bear no responsibility for being born in such a tragic way, but their presence is nonetheless a gift worth honoring.
Risking Lives, On Screen and Off
The filmmakers hope Seeds from Kivu will leave a lasting impact to stop the world from turning a blind eye to the moral, ethical, and humanitarian discrimination happening in the DRC. It's so important and personal to them that they risked their lives to film in an active war zone. Spanning nine years of production to offer a brief insight into this horror, the filmmakers plan to return next year to shoot the feature-length version in the same territory.
Takeaway
Says Dr. Denis Mukwege, “Seeds from Kivu captures the heart of our work at Panzi: restoring dignity, healing deep wounds, and standing with survivors as they rebuild their lives. In a time when conflict is intensifying, this film is a vital call for solidarity and for peace in Congo.” Winner of the 2025 Goya Award for Best Documentary Short Film, Seeds from Kivu is now playing on YouTube. It was first released on November 25th, to commemorate International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
'In Need of Seawater' Review: Poetry Comes Alive
A good film is not only cathartic to watch, but can also be therapeutic to create. This is no more apparent than in the short documentary In Need of Seawater, a deeply personal look into the life of poet and producer Mark Anthony Thomas. Directed by Richard Yeagley, In Need of Seawater is a moving portrait of Thomas's vulnerability and creative self-expression. Through poignant poetry, Thomas uses his voice to connect with the viewer as he reminisces about being a young black man navigating his identity in this country.
This is America
In Need of Seawater marks the beginning of a trilogy of documentary short films produced and written by Thomas. Filmed within the confines of a small apartment filled with friends, Thomas – nicknamed "The Poet" – reads aloud from the original works he created in his early twenties. Two decades after the release of his book The Poetic Repercussion, described as a lyrical triumph, Thomas recites poems like "Ocean Tides," "Child Support Checkmarks," and "Ink Blot Testing" to a captivating audience. He speaks about various aspects of culture, including nature, love, politics, spirituality, racism, and more. His poems may be derived from past experiences, but it's evident that those early works continue to resonate today.
Poetry Comes Alive in Stunning Visuals
The way filmmaker Richard Yeagley captures this moment is incredibly intimate; it's like we're there in the room with him. While Thomas reads various passages aloud, the documentary cuts to different montages with thematic relevance to the poem being recited. These stunning visuals bring the poetry to life. The incorporation of archival footage adds a backstory that complements his lifelong desire and passion to express himself through words.
Takeaway
Mark Anthony Thomas is a true Renaissance man whose career spans journalism, public service, in addition to his creative work. In this inspiring short documentary, he returns to the poems that shaped his early creativity. In Need of Seawater is set for release on January 10, 2026.
'Rebuilding' Review: The Beauty in Beginning Again
The undeniable parallels between Max Walker-Silverman's Rebuilding and the catastrophic events that took place in January 2025 can be described in a word as existentialist. The Palisades and Altadena fires ripped through communities with reckless abandon, leaving a trail of destruction, heartache, and tears in their wake. But from the rubble emerged a sense of community and optimism that continues to defy expectations. In his follow-up to A Love Song, Walker-Silverman returns to the familiar genre of quiet drama in Rebuilding, opening in Los Angeles on Friday, November 21st.
From Death Comes Rebirth
Starring Josh O'Connor as Dusty, a divorced and introverted cowboy, Rebuilding takes place during the aftermath of devastation. The sound of burning embers and images of trees charred to their core evoke a visceral unease. Homes are in stages of demolition, and what was once a small but lively community has now been abandoned. Dusty finds himself in despair, forced to live out of a FEMA camp after his ranch went up in flames. Instead of tending to his horses and maintaining his ranch, he lives out of a government-owned micro trailer in the middle of the desert, where the ceiling barely clears the top of his head.
Dusty has lost a lot, but not everything. His ex-wife Ruby (Meghann Fahy) and their young daughter Callie-Rose (Lily LaTorre) offer physical and emotional support, which is invaluable. Dusty's relationship with Ruby is empathetic and good-natured, a sign of their true character. Outside of this untraditional dynamic, Dusty's spirits are lifted by the local community who also reside at the FEMA camp, and specifically, the sweet-souled Mila (Kali Reis). The group's bond of togetherness offers a poignant reminder that from death always comes rebirth.
Lingering in the Stillness
Rebuilding plays like an aesthetic companion to Kate Beecroft's East of Wall, a fellow desert drama that rings with humanist truths. The authenticity in the script that translates to the screen is largely due to Max Walker-Silverman's stoic yet tender vision. He doesn't rush through the quiet moments, instead choosing to linger on the in-between. As Dusty, Josh O'Connor's performance is a steady force, drawing us into his pain and ultimately, his gratitude. The acoustic soundtrack by composers Jake Xerxes Fussell and James Elkington complements the film's Southern roots. It reminds me of early Bon Iver, which is always lovely.
Takeaway
Breathtaking scenery and strong performances make Rebuilding a sensational watch. Leaning more introspective and meditative than most modern-day releases, Rebuilding is also a nice reminder that slowing down is a crucial, and often overlooked, joy of life.
'Christy' Review: A Subpar Retelling of a Knockout Story
Filmmaker David Michôd's docudrama about the famous boxer Christy Martin hit theaters last week, and its journey from TIFF darling to social media punching bag devolved quickly. Still, much like the film's titular protagonist, Christy isn't going down without a fight. Starring Sydney Sweeney, Christy tells the true story of one woman's battle for victory within the boxing ring while simultaneously fighting to reclaim her identity outside of it.
The Biggest Fight Lies Outside of the Ring
Christy Martin's (Sweeney) rise to fame as the most successful female boxer of the '90s wasn't without its setbacks. Growing up in a small town in West Virginia, Christy – nicknamed the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” – is plucked from obscurity once she catches the attention of trainer and manager-turned-husband, Jim Martin (Ben Foster). Christy's incredible strength and ability to outperform her counterparts are unlike anything Jim has ever seen. His dreams for Christy's future become his sole focus, which eventually creates a rift in their already fraught relationship.
An important characteristic to note about Christy is that she is queer. Before leaving West Virginia and entering the elite boxing world, she had a romantic relationship with another woman. This, however, is not considered acceptable by her family or management. As Jim so eloquently summarizes early on in their professional relationship, "Nobody wants to see a butch girl fight." Determined to win while avoiding social stigma at all costs, Christy suppresses her true identity and morphs into a figure who is unrecognizable by her former self. Ignoring her instincts, she agrees to marry Jim. The manager/husband dynamic works for some time, but Jim's controlling and manipulative behavior continues to worsen the more successful Christy becomes. She eventually realizes that the biggest fight lies ahead of her, and that is going against her husband.
A Phenomenal Story That Falls Flat
Balancing two themes, one of a rising boxing star and the other a domestic abuse victim, requires very delicate storytelling. Writer/director David Michôd attempts to nail this balance, but the film ultimately ends up lopsided and flat. Removing two or three boxing montages from the final cut would potentially have allowed time to dive deeper into Christy's internal struggles. What we have instead is a status quo and paint-by-numbers feature that lacks electricity and memorability. With a lengthy two-hour and fifteen-minute runtime, the film could have also benefited from a pared-down score. Sweeping and triumphant music is best used in select scenes for the highest emotional impact, but Christy suffers from using the score as a crutch.
Takeaway
Does Christy need over two hours to tell this story? No. Will Sydney Sweeney be anywhere in the conversation for Best Performance, like once alleged? Again, no. What Christy does offer audiences is a traditional biopic about an inspiring woman who defied the odds, yet unfortunately, it didn't come close to matching Christy's fiery persona.
'Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk' Review: The Ultimate Conversation
Among the buzzy titles in the Cannes Film Festival lineup this year, one independent film stood out from the rest. Documentarian Sepideh Farsi's Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk became front-page news when the main subject of her film, photojournalist Fatma Hassona, was tragically murdered just one day after receiving news that the film would screen at the festival. Fatma's shining spirit and irrefutable legacy will now live on posthumously in Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk.
Giving a Voice to the Victims: Capturing Daily Life During Wartime Gaza
Opening in Los Angeles this Friday, Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk offers a firsthand account of life under siege in Gaza, as experienced through the eyes of 25-year-old Palestinian photojournalist and poet Fatma Hassona. Captured through video calls, many of which suffer from poor quality, Fatma speaks candidly with director Sepideh Farsi as she recounts the horrible atrocities occurring daily on the streets of Gaza. Given the consistency and proximity of bombings, every interview and meeting with Fatma is a miracle. A talented photographer, Fatma shares some of the visceral and emotionally wrought photos she has captured over the months, each one more devastating than the next.
Watch the trailer for Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk here.
On April 15, 2025, Sepideh unknowingly had her last conversation with Fatma. In a somewhat meta moment, Sepideh shares the news that the film will be playing at the Cannes Film Festival. Fatma's excitement is undeniable, and she enthusiastically tells Sepideh she plans to attend. At 1:00 am the following morning, Fatma and six members of her family were killed as they slept by a targeted Israeli airstrike on their home.
A One-of-a-Kind Piece of Cinema
Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk is unlike any other documentary you'll see this year. The simplicity of the edit and overall production stands in stark contrast to the heaviness and importance of the subject matter. A seasoned independent documentary filmmaker, Sepideh Farsi breaks the fourth wall in her telling of Fatma's story. There are no bells and whistles, no fancy Hollywood magic; just a powerful story from a compelling narrator. By approaching the film in this way, Sepideh – knowingly or not – levels the playing field in terms of attainability and access. This film proves that anyone can make an impactful movie, regardless of budget.
Takeaway
Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk is the closest first-person POV possible to Gaza's frontlines. Through intimate and vulnerable conversation, Fatma heroically gives audiences a new perspective on the endless cycle of violence in her city. This is essential viewing, not only for its timely message, but also as a heartfelt tribute to a young woman who deserved to live her life to the fullest.
'White Agbada' Review: Answering the Call of One's Ancestors
There are times when a supernatural sighting may be just the thing to effectively snap one out of a downward spiral. This is true in writer/director Lande Yoosuf's short film, White Agbádá, an intimate look at a woman striving to reclaim peace in her life. The film recently made its World Premiere at the 2025 Woodstock Film Festival.
The Unconventional Path Towards Healing
The film begins with the dictionary definition of the word "agbádá". Most likely a foreign word to many, the meaning translates to a prestigious, traditional robe worn by men in West Africa. Many wearers of the garment also belong to spiritual communities. This information sets the scene for what's to come when we meet Ibironke (Idara Victor). Ibironke is a Nigerian-American woman stuck in a cycle of self-destructive habits. With unemployment paperwork cluttering her living room, the lack of urgency to recalibrate her life is obvious.
After turning down her sister’s plea to join a spiritual family trip to Nigeria, Ibironke spends a day running errands. While out, she runs into some fellow Nigerians, whose presence offers a subtle reminder of her heritage and the importance of embracing her community. But her downward spiral isn't finished yet, as Ibironke continues to engage in an affair with her soon-to-be-married business partner. It is then that Ibironke has a surreal vision of a cloaked man in her room. The experience freaks her out enough to finally take action by kicking her situationship out of both her bedroom – and her life– for good. It also acts as the catalyst for accepting her sister's invitation for a spiritual trip, hopeful that this will be the necessary change to better her life.
Director's Statement
"Loosely inspired by my own struggles—with food addictions, fruitless relationships, and ill-fitting therapy—it reflects the integrated path to healing I only discovered once I embraced my ancestral lineage from Yorubaland, Nigeria. This film asks what it means to be a first-generation American, balancing two identities whose values often collide. Many of my peers have chosen assimilation, yet I see how that void of unanswered questions persists. For me, the “call” to return to my Yoruba roots grew louder the more I resisted, until I could no longer ignore it."
Takeaway
Running 12 minutes long, White Agbádá is a solid output by filmmaker Lande Yoosuf. The material is cerebral and spiritual, yet accessible enough to relate to and empathize with. High production quality and a strong performance from lead actor Idara Victor ground this supernatural drama in reality. The quietly dramatic score by composer Dolapo Akinkugbe also plays nicely against Daniel Patterson's cinematography.
'Dangling Carrot' Review: The Messiness of Millennial Dating
Looking for love in the city that never sleeps is a Herculean feat, as seen in filmmaker Taylor Ghrist's feature film Dangling Carrot. Ghrist writes, directs, and stars in this complicated story about a young man searching for love in all the wrong places. This dramedy isn't afraid to get graphic as it dives deep into the messiness of the NYC millennial dating scene.
The Downside of a "No Strings Attached" Dating Scene
Taylor (Ghrist) is a queer, sober, and unemployed millennial who is always searching for the next guy. He should be job hunting, but instead is app-swiping. Our introduction to Taylor is extremely memorable, as we see him servicing random men for the thrill of it. It's obvious that this type of one-sided sexual behavior is demoralizing for Taylor, but it's become a pattern he seems to not be able to break. Throughout the film, Taylor meets up with a variety of men. Two of them initially stand out as decent guys with long-term potential; however, Taylor quickly learns that both are emotionally unavailable. Adding to his spiraling situation, these relationships also threaten to derail his mental health and sobriety.
A Big Story Told on a Micro Budget
Dangling Carrot is full of raw and intimate experiences between our protagonist and his dates. Conversations quickly turn into graphic, physical acts that always leave Taylor feeling empty. It's sad to see how this cycle continues to destroy what little self-respect he has left, but nevertheless, we continue to root for him to find his strength and confidence. Filmmaker Taylor Ghrist channels a Sean Baker-type of energy with the raw subject material. Aiding in this is the electric score by composer Donald Cumming.
Director's Statement
Says Ghrist, "An urgency following multiple heartaches, a frustration with sex culture, and a much-needed self-introspection was the advent for Dangling Carrot. In a sense, it’s my New York City love letter for the times we live in and an unabashed depiction of a young gay man’s life, mostly sourced from experiences of my own, while not entirely factual. I have always struggled to connect with many gay characters in cinema, and thought writing my own experience would not only be cathartic but be a great film.
As a gay man myself living in Manhattan, I have always had a puzzling relationship with sex and, yes, my own gay identity and connection to other men... In a way, Dangling Carrot is a (late) coming-of-age story that touches upon these subjects. My intention is to portray a certain millennial ache where it’s so easy to meet people but so hard to get to know someone, especially in a city like New York."
Takeaway
Regardless of sexual orientation, Dangling Carrot offers a universal statement on the importance of human connection and the lengths some go to attain it. In today's world of growing isolation, it resonates now more than ever. The film made its World Premiere yesterday at the Downtown Festival in New York City.
'Gay, Asian, Immigrant' Review: Self-Degradation Comes with a Price
Ushmey Chakraborty brings a lighthearted point of view to a typically taboo topic in his short film Gay, Asian, Immigrant. The multi-hyphenate filmmaker not only acts as the film's writer, director, and producer, but he also stars in this indie comedy. The result is a personal and eye-opening account of the risks and, ironically, the occasional payoffs of perpetuating a stereotype to get ahead.
Self-Degradation Comes with a Price
The film opens with an upbeat theme song, much like the beloved sitcoms from the 90s. Think, Family Matters or Full House. The theme song does more than catch our attention. It entertainingly gives us the backstory about our protagonist, Ravi (Chakraborty), a privileged Gay, Asian, Immigrant. Through a comical and brightly saturated montage, we see Ravi walking the streets of Beverly Hills as well as driving his Mercedes-Benz while the lyrics and catchy melody inform us that he comes from a life of privilege. Despite his familial wealth, Ravi seems sweet and genuine. The next scene shows Ravi at home with his date, Ben (Dre Matthews), enjoying a quiet afternoon. However, they are soon interrupted by a knock on the door from Ravi's boss, Cheryl (Janet Carter).
Cheryl's unexpected visit throws Ravi for a loop and unintentionally forces Ravi to confront the thing he's been hiding: his true identity. Ravi opens the door and begins talking to Cheryl in a comically exaggerated Indian accent. To clarify, Ravi has never had an Indian accent. Ben is rightfully confused, questioning why Ravi is acting as a caricature. Ravi pulls Ben aside and explains that perpetuating the facade of being a "Gay, Asian, Immigrant" stereotype was the only way he could keep his job in a white-dominated space. Unconvinced, Ben reiterates the importance of defying these harmful expectations and stereotypes. He then issues an ultimatum: "me or the lie."
Authenticity in Front of and Behind the Lens
For a film about exploiting perception, Ushmey Chakraborty brings a great deal of personal authenticity to the project. As a queer filmmaker, Chakraborty crafts a dialogue that is rarely covered in mainstream Hollywood: exploiting stereotypes to get ahead. The struggle with personal identity is a common theme, but Chakraborty cleverly flips the script on traditional expectations. A tight three-person cast brings out the best in this ultra indie, hitting the comical and serious tones with finesse.
Director's Statement
Says Chakraborty, "Using the trope of a situational-comedy, I explore a theme that many People of Color feel in predominantly white rooms, which is, “code switching” - subtle changes in the way we talk and behave, just so our white counterparts don’t say anything casually racist: such as, “You speak such great English coming from India” (classic). But this time, the agency is given to the Person of Color. My primary visual motif is color: Initially, we see everything in bright, pulpy colours symbolising the fake world the protagonist has built for himself, but when the truth starts to emerge, the color fades to resemble reality. In the end, the choice is presented: live in truth or lies... hopefully, we all make the right choice."
Takeaway
Gay, Asian, Immigrant tells an unexpectedly poignant story about the consequences of "code-switching." Using comedy as an entry point, the film's deeper themes of stereotypes and cultural expectations are issues worth pondering.
'Whisper Breach' Review: When AI Falls Into the Wrong Hands
There is a new reason to fear AI's growing capabilities in filmmaker Craig Cockerill's action thriller Whisper Breach. And while no one is denying that the technology is incredible, Cockerill is more interested in exploring what happens when it falls into the wrong hands. A cautionary tale for enthusiasts and skeptics alike, Whisper Breach will send your pulse racing. Now available to rent and buy on Prime Video and Apple TV, streaming for free on Tubi.
AI Has a Dark Side
Sandy (Chelsea Gilson) and Kent Collins (Mike Markoff) are ex-Navy SEALs who have since moved on from the battlefield and into a relationship. One evening, they invite their friend, Winston Burns (Garon Grigsby), over for a night of lighthearted fun. No one expected what would happen next. A day or so later, while out spearfishing, Sandy becomes entangled in the reef and drowns. Kent is devastated, and Winston is quick to console him. In the midst of his grief, Winston floats an idea by Kent, one that only he has the power to harness.
Winston introduces Kent to "W.B.," or "Whisper Breach," a powerful black ops AI that has the capabilities to completely dismantle democracy as we know it. "When fully activated," says Winston of WB, "the powerful will crumble and never know what hit them." Kent accepts his role as WB's handler, believing that he is contributing to a good cause. However, Winston has more sinister plans for WB. The AI entanglement begins to completely overtake Kent's life, leaving him questioning what is reality and what is fabrication. As the web of lies and deceit exposes itself, Kent realizes that his relationship with Winston is not what it seems, and the battle between loyalty and betrayal has just begun.
A Wild Run With Numerous Twists and Turns
Writer/director Craig Cockerill crafts this fast-paced thriller that will have you guessing what happens next until the very end. Strong performances by the three leading actors anchor the plot in reality, while the score by composer Jeff Toyne adds an electrifying sense of cinematic spirit.
Director's Statement
Says Cockerill, "I set out to make a film that thrills but also troubles viewers, sparking conversation about the world we are racing toward. The tone is bold because the subject demands it. We really are flirting with something powerful and possibly dangerous, summoning demons we may not control. In the end, Whisper Breach is as much cautionary tale as entertainment. I invite audiences to see how things can go wrong and to feel why it matters long after the credits roll."
Takeaway
Amidst a backdrop of moral conflict, Whisper Breach boldly explores our potential reality with an AI-driven crisis of trust.
'Little Mother Lies' Review: A Portrait of Unconditional Maternal Love
Stories of addiction within complicated family dynamics are often difficult but necessary watches. With so many people suffering from substance abuse in silence, seeing these stories reflected on screen offers a greater sense of understanding. The short film Little Mother Lies, directed by Amanda Deering Jones and written by Kitty Edwinson, acts as a beacon of light for those who find themselves struggling with dark times.
Facing Your Demons Amidst Family Dysfunction
Little Mother Lies is a micro-indie that features three actors. Dorie (Pascale Roger-McKeever) and Marinka (Emilie Talbot) are sisters and third-generation descendants of exiled Russian aristocrats. The women sit around a dining room table, clearly engaging in somewhat uncomfortable dialogue. As they converse over bowls of borscht, a signature Ukrainian soup. Dorie's son Owen (Elliott Thomas West) is in the middle of violent withdrawals. His isolation from the family hurts Dorie tremendously, and nothing Marinka says or does is of any help. Eventually, it's discovered that Marinka may be more of an enabler than a dependable resource for support.
The 14-minute short is based on the filmmakers' conceptual feature film Mother Lies, a full rendition of this family’s story. Amanda Deering Jones plays with the themes of heritage and societal hardship with equally dramatic stakes. The tension between the sisters hits its peak when Dorie realizes that, despite Marinka being family, she may not be capable of maintaining their relationship during this difficult time with her son.
Director's Statement
Says Jones, "As we connect with these characters and their guards come down, we become aware of some deeply held assumptions about the origins of substance abuse and our current approaches to treatment. We see the consequences of the one-size-fits-all system through the suffering of this family. They elicit our compassion and help us realize that inflexibility has no place in a system that so often fails the people who depend on it."
Takeaway
A mother's commitment to her children never expires, and Little Mother Lies is proof of this unconditional love. Little Mother Lies will have its World Premiere at the 2025 Soho International Film Festival.
'All American' Review: The Mental and Physical Battle of Women's Wrestling
A few months ago, the NCAA formally included women's wrestling as its 91st championship sport. After debuting at the 2004 Olympics, it has skyrocketed in popularity among women and girls. This meteoric rise is wonderfully captured in filmmaker Mark Andrew Altschul's documentary, All American.
The Mental and Physical Battle of Women's Wrestling
In All American, Altschul crafts an inspiring, family-friendly sports film that will have you on the edge of your seat. The documentary offers an in-depth look into women’s wrestling through the lens of three high schoolers breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport. Altschul's subjects consist of three immigrant and first-generation American teenagers. Each girl details the challenges that come with entering what has long been considered a male-dominated sport, in addition to their underlying struggles with family, cultural assimilation, and identity.
One young woman, Arham, acts as the film's protagonist. She is Muslim, and in her community, wrestling is seen as violent and no place for a young girl like herself. However, her passion far outweighs any obligation to her family's strongly held religious beliefs. Faced with a heartbreaking ultimatum, Arham makes the difficult decision to move out of her family home and into a shelter, all to pursue her wrestling career.
A Love Letter to an Underdog Sport
The production ran for five years and thoroughly explains the sport's rise in popular culture. Interviews with wrestling legends, including Sue Roshan, add urgency to the momentum of overcoming the taboo of women athletes. Director Mark Andrew Altschul uses both traditionally shot footage as well as mixed media animation to portray the incredible physical and psychological tolls the sport requires.
Takeaway
All American is a powerful story of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of the American dream. It's an inspiring watch as these unrelenting young women chase their dreams. The film is screening at the Heartland Film Festival beginning October 10th.
Dan Deacon Debuts Track from HBO's 'Task'
Baltimore-based recording artist and composer Dan Deacon lends his signature sound to HBO's new acclaimed detective series, Task. Leaning into the plethora of thematic beats, including visceral action and emotional intimacy, Deacon's score acts as the sonic heartbeat of the show. In the vivid electronic track "He Was Here," which debuts on Cinemacy before its digital availability on Friday, October 3rd, Deacon utilizes strings and synths to showcase the character's shifting dynamics.
Task is set in the working-class suburbs of Philadelphia, where an FBI agent (Mark Ruffalo) heads a Task Force to put an end to a string of violent robberies led by an unassuming family man (Tom Pelphrey), who appears to be the least likely suspect. The series airs new episodes weekly on HBO and streams on HBO Max.
EXCLUSIVE: Cinemacy is proud to debut ‘He Was Here’ from HBO's Task, below:
Says Deacon, “Working on Task was perhaps the most musically rewarding experience of my career. I fell in love with the scripts and immediately began writing demos based on the emotional response from Brad Ingelsby's (creator/writer/showrunner/executive producer) writing. The story contains a massive expanse of emotional range, and we aimed for a score to accompany the scope of his writing. We talked at length about scale and density: when to be huge, when to be small, when to push in, and when to rest. It was a collaborative exploration of range.
The series builds its core musical motifs around "families" and how they interact and affect each other, shifting the themes and motifs as the story progresses. This approach helped us hone in on our main themes and approach them with a modular/mashup mindset for building deeper, more interconnected relationships as the series progresses.”
About Dan Deacon
Deacon is celebrated for his innovative electronic music and dynamic work in film and television scoring. With five studio albums and a reputation for genre-defying compositions, he has premiered work at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Barbican Centre, and collaborated with leading artists and institutions including Kronos Quartet, Sō Percussion, Future Islands, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the LA Philharmonic, and choreographer Justin Peck with the New York City Ballet.
As a composer for screen, Deacon’s recent credits include Venom: The Last Dance (Columbia/Marvel), Hustle (Netflix), and the Oscar-nominated Ascension (which earned him a Cinema Eye Honors award for Best Score). His television projects include the Peabody Award–winning Philly D.A. (PBS), The Changeling (Apple TV+), and Perfect Wife (Hulu). With a career that bridges avant-garde composition and mainstream appeal, Dan Deacon continues to expand the possibilities of contemporary music for the stage and visual media.
'Beyond The Gates of Hell' Review: A Couple's Dream Home Turns into a Nightmare
A young couple discovers that their dream home is all a facade in the micro indie Beyond the Gates of Hell. Just in time for the Halloween spooky season, writer/director Dustin Ferguson brings out the horrors and haunts in this 42-minute mid-length feature. Drawing inspiration from 80s Italian horror, Beyond the Gates of Hell is a witty and entertaining B-horror film that uses its kookiness to its advantage.
Dream Home Turns Into a Death Trap
What caught my attention immediately was the "Movie Trailers" that precede Beyond the Gates of Hell. The first five minutes are dedicated to other similarly gory films, providing a uniquely comical touch. Once we settle into the "Feature Presentation," we meet our protagonists, Ian (Eric Larsen) and Katrina (Traci Burr). The newlywed couple arrives at their recently purchased mansion in the countryside, eager to fulfill their dream by opening a bed & breakfast. However, they become suspicious when their realtor warns them to "watch your step, these old places are full of tricks."
She then explains the mansion's lore. This includes how the previous owner was burned alive in the basement by neighbors who believed he was a devil worshipper. Katrina is not amused at this horrifying discovery and begs Ian to reconsider buying the property. At first, Ian brushes off Katrina's concerns, but unexplainable things begin happening inside the house that the couple can't ignore. One night, a mysterious neighbor named Henrietta (Jennifer Moriarty) shows up with a message from "beyond the gates of hell." She explains to Katrina that the mansion is cursed and sits atop one of the seven gateways of hell. What follows is a crescendo of nightmarish incidents that leads to a not so happily ever after.
Bringing Big Ideas to Life in a Big Way
Dustin Ferguson crafts a devilishly wicked world within the confines of what I can only assume is a micro budget. The ingenuity to bring such a big idea to life with limited resources is a truly admirable feat. Ferguson is no stranger to the micro indie universe. With a filmography over 160 credits long, he is perhaps one of the only directors who can successfully execute a genre film that is this ambitious.
Takeaway
Beyond the Gates of Hell is a fun popcorn flick to lose yourself in during this spooky season. Strong performances and a pitch-perfect score make this horror haunt both a trick and a treat for audiences at home.
'Divia' Review: A Sonic Journey from Destruction to Resurrection
What comes to mind when thinking of Ukraine is a portrait of a wounded yet resilient country. A proud population who are committed to survival amongst the chaos and years-long destruction of their homeland. Despite the unrelenting and horrifying hardship, filmmaker Dmytro Hreshko creatively gives audiences a new way to envision Ukraine without focusing solely on its devastation. In the documentary, Divia, Hreshko enlists composer Sam Slater and cinematographer Volodymyr Usyk to remind the world of Ukraine's natural beauty before Russia's full-scale invasion.
A Portrait of Ukraine Before, During, and Beyond War
Divia is unlike traditional documentaries. There is no dialogue, nor interviewees. Rather, Divia is a meditative, sound-driven journey through devastated land. Slater's beautiful composition is intertwined with field recordings of natural elements, such as waterfalls, animals, and wind. This layered soundscape creates a metaphysical symphony that enhances the stunning images on screen. Lush forests, vast landscapes, and organic abundance portray a Ukraine thriving with life and prosperity.
This natural beauty is slowly interrupted by the changing environment, which is further illustrated by a transformation in the music composition. Harsher weather and remnants of war, evidenced by barren forests, cratered fields, and abandoned military machines, snap the viewer back to reality. This is the Ukraine we have begun to normalize in these images of sadness and death. While it cannot be ignored, director Dmytro Hreshko offers hope by reminding us that life continues onward. Seasons change, and with it comes the birth of new life. Grass begins to grow again, animals return, and the images of destruction are replaced with resurrection.
Director's Statement
Says Hreshko, "The destruction of nature is a significant part of the cost we Ukrainians pay for our freedom from Russia, which views nature and the world around it merely as resources for exploitation and expansion. Documenting the Russian military's eco-crimes and the destruction of natural landscapes and ecosystems is crucial. Understanding the scope of these issues is the first step toward solving them. While environmental concerns might not be a priority for Ukrainians amidst pressing issues, neglecting them could pose greater threats to our lives than anticipated."
Takeaway
Divia offers a unique perspective on where beauty and devastation coexist. If you approach this film with patience and grace, you'll no doubt leave with deep appreciation.