'Predators' Review: Good vs Evil Isn't so Black and White
We've all been there, eyes glued to our screens, watching the latest car chase through the streets of Los Angeles. Or maybe your vice is scrolling late-night TikToks of police body cam footage catching Target shoplifters. There is no denying that this type of voyeuristic content is entertaining, sometimes embarrassingly so. The question is, why are we so drawn to watching people at their worst, especially when it comes to true crime? In the documentary Predators, filmmaker David Osit explores the psychological fascination behind the popular TV show To Catch a Predator, and how the series continues to perpetuate the blurred lines between justice and entertainment.
Who is the Real Predator Here?
Since its inception in the early 2000s, Dateline NBC's To Catch a Predator series became an instant cultural phenomenon. The show employed decoys, actors pretending to be young teenagers, to lure child predators to a sting house, which is actually a film set. The men arrive thinking that they are meeting up with their underage victim. What they don't expect is for Chris Hansen to appear with a film crew and catch them in the act. Hansen typically asks the men, "What are you doing here?", and there is never a reassuring answer. Famously, Hansen ends his interviews by saying, "You're free to leave." It is then that these men are apprehended by local law enforcement and taken to jail. Typically, the episode ends there, and those watching from home turn to another program. But for these offenders, their nightmare is just starting.
There is no doubt that To Catch a Predator is a stunning candid-camera investigative series. However, the show has never been explored from the psychological standpoint of our obsession with watching people at their lowest. Director David Osit's very personal motivation to explore the morally gray ethics of To Catch a Predator opens our eyes to points of view that offer incredibly thought-provoking testimony. Speaking with former decoys, law enforcement, and Chris Hansen himself, Osit crafts a delicate story of how good vs evil isn't always so black and white.
Director's Statement
Says Osit, "Ultimately, I couldn’t have imagined the depths of the journey I’d end up going on - how making this film would not only challenge the limits of my own empathy, but reflect the tenuous morality behind how we tell stories, report news, and make films. My frustration with true crime, I realized, came from the illusion that after watching a true crime story, the crime will be solved and we’ll get all the answers. But what if I made a film that was about what happens - and what are we capable of doing to each other - when answers can’t be found? In a sense, Predators became a true crime story. But the villain wasn’t who I thought it’d be."
Takeaway
Predators is a tough watch, and you may not agree with some of the statements made on screen. But Osit doesn't aim to change your mind about the show's impact or importance. Instead, Predators is more of a vehicle for self-reflection. It leads us to question why we embrace this type of content so voraciously. Further, it challenges us to examine this uncomfortable topic in order to find humanity in its complexity.
Once the credits roll, we're free to leave the theater. But the emotional impact of Predators will linger with you long after.
'The Summer Book' Review: A Summer Spent Swimming Through Grief
Filmmaker Charlie McDowell captures a wistful spirit of summer amidst the backdrop of family tragedy in the drama The Summer Book. Based on the novel of the same name by Finnish author Tove Jansson, the film pulls audiences into its world much like a breaking wave returning to the ocean. It's easy to get swept away in this intergenerational drama about the finality of life and death.
What Happens
8-time Oscar-nominated actor Glenn Close plays Grandmother, an artist who lives on a small, uninhabited island in the Gulf of Finland. She invites her adult son (Anders Danielsen Lie) and her 9-year-old granddaughter (Emily Matthews) to stay with her for the season as they heal from a heartbreaking death within the immediate family. Amidst the beauty and stillness of their environment, the trio begins to reconnect with nature and each other. They engage in a communal journey through grief that ultimately allows old wounds and complicated family dynamics to start to heal.
Takeaway
The Summer Book is light on plot, which may cause some viewers to grow impatient. However, it seems as if filmmaker Charlie McDowell would rather his audience "experience" the film as opposed to "analyze" it. The one-location setting allows us to familiarize ourselves with the surroundings, imagining how we would spend our days and nights on a picturesque, remote island. Aiding in this daydream is the softly angelic score by composer Hania Rani who knows how to elicit feelings of warmth from within. Despite its lack of substantial momentum, The Summer Book still provides a gently therapeutic and visually appealing experience.
This review originally ran on November 4, 2024, during AFI FEST.
'Crying on Command' Review: An Audition Room Crashout
Director Nick Craven skillfully captures every actor's nightmare in his sensational short film, Crying on Command. Making its World Premiere at the 2025 Flicker's Rhode Island International Film Festival, Crying on Command is a stirring slice of life drama.
An Existential Crisis in the Audition Room
The hum of fluorescent lights underscores the tension and anticipation circulating in a waiting room of aspiring actors. A group of girls, similar in appearance and age, quietly rehearse their lines as they wait their turn to be called. All are hoping for their big break, but know that this dream can only be realized by one. From the looks of things, it seems that the lucky lady is Jordyn (Nancy Kimball). A successful table read and prior audition tape make her a shoo-in for the part. The role is essentially hers; however, to secure her big break, she must prove she can cry on command.
Jordyn is caught off guard by the request. Immediately, her nerves get the best of her, and any semblance of a tear evaporates. She becomes lost in her head. When she realizes that she can’t perform, she faces the question that every actor avoids asking themselves: Am I actually good enough?
Nancy Kimball's Stunning Portrait of Self-Doubt
Actor Nancy Kimball captures the universal feeling of desperation that every auditioning actor experiences, with incredible intimacy and empathy. Jordyn's struggle is palpable and, at the same time, admirable. She wants the part and knows she can nail it, but her mind and body are operating out of sync. She instantly becomes overwhelmed by desperation and insecurity. Filmmaker Nick Craven lets Kimball shine in this role. The rest of the environment is minimalist, including the sound, wardrobe, location, and cinematography.
Takeaway
Says Craven, "Having a father who is an actor, and a sibling and mother who also have careers in the business, the idea of 'struggle' in the industry forever lives on as conversation at the dinner table, and in my head. It's romantic, confusing, destructive, but always evolving. There are certain sides of it that have been depicted, and I believe this film provides an alternative style and point of view to the subject."
TIFF 2025: What Should Be on Your Radar This Fall
The summer box office numbers may have been lackluster, but the news coming out of TIFF this week proves that we have much to look forward to this fall. Now in its 50th year, the Toronto International Film Festival kicked off last Friday with a slate of anticipatory films. Oscar buzz tends to circulate this festival, and for good reason. 12 Years a Slave and Slumdog Millionaire both screened at TIFF and ended up winning the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2014 and 2009, respectively. Below are three titles that you should keep on your radar this fall and beyond.
Rental Family
Set against modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese "rental family" agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality. Confronting the moral complexities of his work, he rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the quiet beauty of human connection. Directed by HIKARI with music by Jónsi and Alex Somers.
Hamnet
William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife, Agnes (Jessie Buckley), celebrate the birth of their son, Hamnet. However, when tragedy strikes and Hamnet dies at a young age, it inspires Shakespeare to write his timeless masterpiece "Hamlet." Academy Award–winning director Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) helms this lush and tender drama about Shakespeare and his family, as seen through the eyes of his thoughtful wife.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) returns for his most dangerous case yet in the third and darkest chapter of Rian Johnson’s murder mystery opus. When young priest Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) is sent to assist charismatic firebrand Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin), it’s clear that all is not well in the pews. Wicks’s modest-but-devoted flock includes devout church lady Martha Delacroix (Glenn Close), circumspect groundskeeper Samson Holt (Thomas Haden Church), tightly-wound lawyer Vera Draven, Esq. (Kerry Washington), aspiring politician Cy Draven (Daryl McCormack), town doctor Nat Sharp (Jeremy Renner), best-selling author Lee Ross (Andrew Scott), and concert cellist Simone Vivane (Cailee Spaeny).
After a sudden and seemingly impossible murder rocks the town, the lack of an obvious suspect prompts local police chief Geraldine Scott (Mila Kunis) to join forces with renowned detective Benoit Blanc to unravel a mystery that defies all logic. Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Rian Johnson writes and directs Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. In select theaters on November 26th, coming to Netflix on December 12, 2025.
Grammy-Winning Sam Slater Debuts Track from '2000 Meters to Andriivka'
Two-time Grammy Award-winning composer Sam Slater crafts an immersive sonic world in 2000 Meters to Andriivka, where he joins the Oscar-winning team behind last year's Best Documentary, 20 Days in Mariupol. Premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, filmmaker and Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Mstyslav Chernov's hard-hitting sophomore film chronicles the war in Ukraine as Ukrainian soldiers attempt to liberate a strategic village from Russian forces. Slater’s restrained but powerful score transcends traditional music, blurring the lines between sound design and composition. To achieve this, he utilizes a variety of handmade instruments and processed field recordings that contribute to the chaotic soundscape. The result is a sonic embodiment of the homegrown, yet unstoppable spirit of the Ukrainian military.
2000 Meters to Andriivka documents the toll of the Russia-Ukraine war from a personal and devastating vantage point. Weaving together original footage, intensive bodycam video, and powerful moments of reflection, 2000 Meters to Andriivka offers an intimate glimpse into the heads and hearts of those on the frontlines. Chernov captures soldiers' visceral realization in stark detail as they advance farther through their destroyed homeland, as they struggle with knowing if this war will ever end. Using such strong visuals, the quiet yet powerfully affecting ten-track album complements the frontline documentary footage with immersive spatial sound design.
EXCLUSIVE: Cinemacy is proud to debut 'Will This War Go On Forever' from 2000 Meters to Andriivka, below:
Says Slater of the album, "The score for Mstylsav Chernov's new documentary 2000 Meters to Andriivk demanded an energy-driven score — blunt, visceral, and aligned with its predominantly first-person perspective. Built around a dry funereal drum feeding back into itself, the score is volatile and relentless. Jakob Vasak’s snarling Kobophon and Kai Whitson’s spectral walkie-talkie textures hover anxiously above it. Voices and strings emerge warped and restless until the closing Mysteria ritual, where Hildur Guðnadóttir, Simon Goff, and Maria W Horn briefly resolve into mournful harmony, grounding us in grief as fallen soldiers’ names are summoned into the air."
About Sam Slater
Sam Slater is a composer and producer working at the intersection of experimental music, sound design, and contemporary storytelling. His work has shaped critically acclaimed projects including Joker, Chernobyl, and Battlefield 2042. Accolades include the Icelandic Music Award for Producer of the Year, the SCL Award for Battlefield 2042, and the Filmfare Award for Best Original Soundtrack for Netflix’s The Railway Men.
He also co-leads OSMIUM, an improvisational collaboration with Hildur Guðnadóttir, James Ginzburg, and Rully Shabara. The project, whose debut album was released in June 2025, employs augmented, custom-made robotic and electro-mechanical instruments that fuse industrial textures, ritualistic density, and physical performance. The result is a creation of unique sounds that resist categorization. Based in Berlin, Slater continues to develop work that challenges fixed categories, composing for orchestras, machines, field recordings, and spatial systems.
Lakeshore Records is releasing '2000 Meters to Andriivka (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)' on digital platforms this Friday. You can listen and pre-order the vinyl here.
'East of Wall' Review: Evoking a Sense of Sonder
Authenticity seems to be the buzzword right now in hooking audiences to pay attention to various forms of entertainment. Filmmaker Kate Beecroft effectively demonstrates this, along with a natural sense of originality, in her debut feature, East of Wall. Winner of the 2025 Sundance Film Festival Audience Award, East of Wall captures a magical spirit by stirring up a tangible sense of sonder.
"Real Cowgirl Shit"
East of Wall is an atmospheric journey for both the mind and the soul. The film follows Tabatha, a good-hearted yet rebellious rancher who rescues and resells horses for a living in the Badlands of South Dakota. Every day may look the same for Tabatha and her fractured family, which includes the seven wayward teenagers who live with her, but she wouldn't trade it for the world. Tabatha is a gifted horse whisperer whose passion and love for these majestic animals far outweigh the stress of her increasingly desperate living situation. However, she soon faces an enticing opportunity that requires a life-changing, yet conflicting, choice. Tabitha must decide if she is willing to give up her ranch, and the only life she knows, for financial freedom.
An Authentic Portrait of Female Resilience
The incredible discovery of Tabatha, a real-life cowgirl, leads to the film's most tender and euphoric moments. Says Beecroft, "Taking a wrong turn... in South Dakota led me to the deepest adventure of my life. I pulled up to a rundown ranch and found Tabatha Zimiga and a [group] of intimidatingly bold teenage girls... heads half-shaved like warriors, eyeing me up and down. Tabatha welcomed me into her world with one sentence: “Want to see some real cowgirl shit?”. I have spent three years living with this family. They allowed me to be a fly on the wall of their barn and trailer, absorbing every inch of their daily life to write this script..."
In addition to the phenomenal casting, cinematographer Austin Shelton brings the Badlands to life through a dynamic choice of lensing. Utilizing the sun's fiery glow and nature's rich elemental tapestry, East of Wall feels wholly organic. Drone shots soar over the mountain ranges, resulting in a feeling as equally kinetic as the horse riding itself. The vibrancy of these visuals seems to permeate through the screen. They magically evoke the smell of summer air as we take in every last drop.
Takeaway
East of Wall is a quiet stunner that unearths a simple, beautiful subsect of American life. Acquired by Sony Pictures Classics, it is now playing in select theaters.
'Realm of Shadows' Review: This Indie Horror Fights Fire With Fire
It's the ultimate battle between good vs. evil in filmmaker Jimmy Drain's indie thriller Realm of Shadows. Starring horror legend Tony Todd (The Candyman), Realm of Shadows is a lo-fi anthology comprised of short stories that create one feature-length film. Weaving together subplots and an ensemble cast of characters, the culmination results in a darkly gothic narrative as unique as the story structure itself.
A Gothic Tale of Desire and Darkness
Realm of Shadows begins with a prologue describing the ultimate beacon of desire, an object called the "Dagger of Destiny." We learn that this sacred dagger is said to be the original weapon used in Jesus's crucifixion. Naturally, it remains a highly desired object. The recipient of this dagger, gifted with its powers, must choose to use it for good or evil. This premise kicks off the following short stories that oscillate between mystery, possession, and the deviancy that lurks in the shadows.
The film has a strong ensemble cast, comprised of female cult members, who act as the film's narrators. Using an Ouija board to jump from story to story, their presence is crucial to the film's structure. Themes of religion and the occult drive Realm of Shadows, which is pretty shocking considering that some of these stories are based on true events.
Crafting an Anti-hero's Journey
Award-winning director Jimmy Drain blends the supernatural with a gritty punk aesthetic in Realm of Shadows. Visually, the film looks like it belongs in an archive from the '90s with its grainy texture and throwback performances. This gives the film a sense of nostalgia, setting it apart from other modern-day horror films. Another interesting stylistic choice is the purposeful lack of dialogue in a few of the short stories. This intentional removal of dialogue forces the score to become the only element driving the story's emotional beats forward.
Takeaway
Sometimes, one must fight fire with fire, as seen in Realm of Shadows. Jimmy Drain keeps the intensity pulsing throughout the entire runtime, ending the film on a cliffhanger of sorts that may warrant the need for a follow-up feature. Realm of Shadows is now available to stream on VOD, including Tubi.
'Generation Well' Review: Chasing Relief Through the Fog of Grief
Grief takes shape in many forms. It's not always linear or rational, but no matter the expression, it's always earnest. This delicate emotional state drives filmmaker Jack Serra's short film, Generation Well. Using one woman's grief as a vehicle for self-discovery, Generation Well is a touching story about persevering through difficult times.
Chasing Relief Through the Fog of Grief
A pregnant woman sits in the back of a police car, speeding down the interstate towards the station. Bruised and clearly shaken up, Stevie (Carly Tatiana Pandza) arrives at the police station ready for booking. Her charges are unclear at this time, but it's obvious that she is under the influence, and that this is not her first run-in with law enforcement. Stevie makes eye contact with one of the officers, Thomas Hernandez (Corey Landis), and is immediately struck by his resemblance to her late father. This coincidence sends Stevie into a full-blown spiral and leads her down a road of unhealthy obsession.
Upon returning home, Stevie's husband, Gale (Mario Silva), frustratingly reminds her that her relapse is the reason he is leaving. This news shatters an already fragile Stevie, who reacts in a very unusual manner: tracking down Officer Hernandez. His familiar face brings comfort, and that is exactly what she is seeking at this moment. However, this action quickly turns into an obsession, which culminates in a dramatic final scene.
Leaning into the Discomfort
Generation Well is a slow-burning drama that confronts some heavy human experiences. Stevie's struggle with substance abuse, combined with family trauma and pregnancy, makes for sympathetic viewing. Bringing the central character to life is Carly Tatiana Pandza, who puts on a phenomenal and artfully controlled performance. In addition to Pandza's acting ability, the tiny micro-movements and restraint in both the script and cinematography create a layered tension. Filmmaker Jack Serra leans into the discomfort and encourages viewers to do the same.
Takeaway
Says Serra, "After losing my father early last year, I became interested in the concept of finality and what someone might do to be in the presence of a deceased loved one again. With this film, I aim to explore the gray area between love and longing, while also focusing on the concept of generational trauma through the lens of addiction." The film made its World Premiere this summer during the 2025 LA Shorts International Film Festival.
'Holo' Review: A Glimpse Into the Near Future?
There are many uncertainties about how AI will fit into our future. Technological advancements seem to be rapidly accelerating, raising questions about their significance in our lives. Director Alexander DeSouza's short film Holo offers viewers a dystopian, Black Mirror-inspired look at what artificial intelligence's future might look like, and it may not be what we expect.
Facing Your Past in the Future
Looking Glass Technologies is a pioneering, yet controversial, private technology company with an unusual business plan. They offer clients a service called HOLO, which is the ability to have an artificial encounter with a past relationship. Using futuristic facial technology and actors who do extensive in-depth research to embody the mannerisms of the person allows grieving clients the opportunity to come face-to-face with individuals from their past.
Claire (Morgan Kohan) uses this service to have the final word with her abusive late husband, Jared (Shane West). Dressed conservatively in a turtleneck and long skirt, Claire initially seems hesitant to face him. Once the session begins and technology turns on, she sees his hologram sitting across from her. Claire is taken aback, but determined to confront him to get closure and move on with her life.
Behind the scenes, Grey (Zelda Williams) is the role-playing actor embodying Jared. Knowing that Jared has an abusive past, with bruises and scars on Claire's arm to prove it, Grey grows increasingly frustrated with the situation she finds herself in. She finds that playing an abuser is unethical, and decides she's not going to be complicit any longer. Grey jeopardizes the session by breaking character, much to Claire and Looking Glass Technologies' dismay.
Dystopian Sci-Fi Meets Complicated Moral Dilemma
Filmmaker Alexander DeSouza's topic then poses a hot discussion in this indie sci-fi: can artificial interactions bring about real catharsis? Judging from this film, the answer lies in the grey area. This makes for lively and diverse conversation post-viewing, which will satisfy audiences who enjoy cerebral films with deep messages. Bringing this all to life are the incredible actors Morgan Kohan, Shane West, and Zelda Williams. Their on-screen time may be short, but their impact resonates. Additional standouts include Alexander Taylor's darkly ominous score and Magali Lafleur's stunning production design.
Takeaway
Is Holo a glimpse into the near future? This thought-provoking exploration into technology's capabilities may seem like a distant dream, but DeSouza leaves us thinking this reality is closer than we think.
'One Night in Tokyo' Review: Finding Love in a Hopeless Place
Being on the receiving end of a break-up is never easy, but it truly stings after flying halfway across the world only to get dumped as soon as you arrive. This nightmare scenario is the catalyst for an unforgettable adventure in filmmaker Joshua Woodcock's One Night in Tokyo. Winner of "Best Feature Drama" at the 2024 Cinequest Film Festival, One Night in Tokyo is an expansive and lively story of personal discovery amidst heartache and betrayal.
Finding Love in a Hopeless Place
The film follows Sam (Reza Emamiyeh), an Iranian-American man who anticipates spending his birthday week with his long-distance girlfriend, Becca (Cailee Oliver). Traveling to Tokyo with a thoughtfully detailed itinerary (and a whole lot of anticipation), Sam is devastated when his girlfriend proposes they break up. His world is turned upside down at Becca's suggestion that they spend time apart, despite traveling across the world to visit her. As this reality sinks in, Sam painstakingly re-books a flight to leave for the following morning, giving him less than 24 hours to make the most of his one night in Tokyo.
Sam calls his friend, who is busy but connects Sam to his girlfriend, Ayaka (Tokiko Kitagawa), who can show him around the city. Sam and Ayaka don't hit it off right away, mainly due to the language barrier. One major hurdle: Sam doesn't understand Japanese, and Ayaka speaks limited English. Their struggle to communicate is difficult to navigate at first, but a simple translation app soon fixes the problem. However, nothing could prepare them for the traumatic experience they will soon encounter. Instead of breaking their spirits, Sam and Ayaka form a bond that brings them even closer together.
Two Strangers Left Questioning the Meaning of Life and Love
Woodcock's romantic drama takes the viewer on a trip throughout the magical streets of Tokyo at night. We witness Sam and Ayaka share and experience each other's cultural traditions. Woodcock beautifully conceptualizes these relationship complexities through bold visual storytelling, including the cinematography and score. The ebb and flow of emotional turmoil and dry humor make for a winning combination. The film relies on time blocks to break up the story, with the passing hours acting as chapters. This element enhances the countdown effect as well as adds a sense of urgency to their situation.
Takeaway
Woodcock describes the film as "John Hughes making a French New Wave film in Japan," which is pretty spot on. If you're a fan of Celine Song's Past Lives or Yasujirō Ozu's Tokyo Story, you'll love One Night in Tokyo.
'About Pie' Review: The Importance of Finding Peace in Fleeting Relationships
Multi-hyphenate creative Joshua M. Lester delivers a delightful rom-com in his debut feature, About Pie. Set in Los Angeles, About Pie is an equally sweet and charming comedy about dating in your twenties. Lester not only displays an adept sense of control behind the camera but also in front of it, starring as the film's protagonist. Whether or not you've navigated the depths of dating apps or encountered an awkward first date, About Pie aims to make you laugh with just the right amount of sweetness.
Dating in Los Angeles, One Slice of Pie at a Time
Our protagonist (Lester), referred to only as "The Pie Guy," is a quirky, hopelessly romantic who believes the key to a perfect first date is as simple as pie... quite literally. His friends poke fun at the unusual date go-to, but that doesn't deter him from his routine. He is convinced that every first date should involve good conversation and a sweet piece of the delicious comfort food. Our pie connoisseur puts his first date theory to the test as he meets, and eats, with single women all over Los Angeles. The more he gets to know the women he dates, the more he begins to understand himself. Modern dating can be difficult, but he soon learns that the journey is just as important as the end goal.
The Importance of Finding Peace in Fleeting Relationships
This coming-of-age rom-com does a savory job balancing the comedy with authentic moments of enlightenment. The main takeaway conveyed here is that filmmaker Joshua M. Lester reminds us to appreciate the moment and not to dwell on anticipating the future. Lester's character enjoys a handful of first dates that won't necessarily make it to long-term relationships. And that's ok! The small relationships we make with people along our journey can be just as important as the lifelong ones. Positive impact doesn't have to equate to longevity.
Takeaway
Joshua M. Lester brings a unique perspective to the dating world in his debut indie feature. Don't be surprised if you're left with a sweet treat craving after watching. Distributed by Gravitas Ventures, About Pie is available to stream for free on Tubi and Prime Video.
'The Return to Why' Review: A Poetic, Lo-Fi Journey Through Grief
Filmmaker William Phelps makes a stunning directorial debut with his arthouse-leaning short film, The Return to Why. Shot in a gritty black and white aesthetic that emulates 16mm film, the result is a lo-fi and spirited short. Combining Phelps' unique vision with a slow-burn approach, The Return to Why is a film that both feels entirely fresh and reminiscent of Jim Jarmusch's NYC-set Stranger Than Paradise.
Moving Through Grief in Impressive One-Takes
Lyria (Cascina Caradonna) is a non-binary young adult who finds themselves at a crossroads. Plagued with internal grief and longing for connection, Lyria makes a pilgrimage back to their hometown in an attempt to recenter and find peace. Lyria is still dealing with the aftermath of the unexpected death of their younger sister, Iris (Stella Marcus). Even though returning home is difficult, Lyria knows this is the only way to move through the grief and trauma to get to the other side.
While back home, Lyria reconnects with their ex, Casey (Yessenia Rivas), and the two engage in an intense and intimate conversation. The film incorporates many flashbacks during these scenes, filled with heavy dialogue, adding a layered, non-linear element that is quite effective. Soft piano ballads round out the experience, which consists of an impressive one-take shot. To successfully pull off this production hurdle, there is a high demand for a perfect performance from the lead actor. Impressively, each of them delivers, especially Cascina Caradonna, whose on-screen style and performance is mesmerizing.
Takeaway
The Return to Why is the embodiment of a true independent film. With an estimated production budget of only $5,000 and a very sporadic shooting schedule (twice a month over a year), William Phelps has pulled off nothing short of a miracle. This is also a deeply personal project for Phelps, who openly discusses exploring his own PTSD diagnosis through film. He credits the following Nietzsche quote as inspiration for his debut short film: “Throw roses into the abyss and say, ‘Here is my thanks to the monster who didn’t succeed in swallowing me alive.'"
'Gold Hearts of Hot Rod County' Review: A Fresh Take on Classic Rebellion
Filmmaker David Kobzantsev captures a feeling of free-spirited nostalgia in his directorial debut, Gold Hearts of Hot Rod County. A coming-of-age story inspired by the cinema of the 80s and 90s–think Dirty Dancing and Footloose–this award-winning short evokes a familiar yet refreshing sense of storytelling. Even more impressive is first-time writer/director David Kobzantsev winning "Best Director" at this year's Stockholm City Film Festival.
Unbound Feelings, Identity, and Youthful Defiance
Gold Hearts of Hot Rod County takes place in a small farm town in the heartland of Americana. For Callie (Shayla Stensby) and her dad (Travis Joe Dixon), the farm is their livelihood. Together, they tend to the fields using their tractors, which Callie is adept at navigating. One morning, she unexpectedly comes face-to-face with Zack (Noah Fearnley), a dangerously irresistible, hot rod-driving bad boy who has seemingly been a familiar figure in her past.
The two later reconnect at a mutual friend's birthday party, where they share a dance. Sparks fly, but Callie knows better than to blindly trust her feelings. Her intuition tells her not to trust Zack's intentions. The following day, both Callie and Zack meet again. This time, it's on the road for a tractor vs hot rod showdown.
Driven by Music
Gold Hearts of Hot Rod County tells a simple story with an acutely dialed-in production. The performances from lead actors Shayla Stensby and Noah Fearnley bring necessary authenticity and electricity, especially during the dance floor scene. The film is powerfully driven (pun intended) by music, both instrumental compositions and vocal arrangements.
Takeaway
Says Kobzantsev, "The film is also designed to feel like a summer blockbuster distilled into a short form — a compact yet explosive experience that combines the heart-pounding excitement of a big race scene with the tender complexity of a small-town coming-of-age story... Above all, Gold Hearts is a love letter to rebellious juvenile love — to those moments when you decide to push back against the life you’ve been given and chase something bigger, faster, more outstanding than what you can imagine. It’s a story about identity, and the beautiful chaos that comes with growing up in a world that feels at once confining and ultimately, full of possibility."
'Flesh of the Unforgiven' Review: A Madcap Descend Into Darkness
Filmmaker Joe Hollow descends into darkness in the independent psychological horror flick Flesh of the Unforgiven. For adults' eyes only, this provocative gothic tale tells the story of a struggling couple tormented by a nightmarish inflictor of panic and pain. Flesh of the Unforgiven may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's evident that it is quite the fan favorite among the horror crowd. As of today, the film has received 31 wins and 5 nominations at various global film festivals, including "Best Feature" at the Diabolical Horror Film Festival.
You Can't Escape Death
Jack (Joe Hollow) and Sienna Russo (Debbie Rochon) are in need of a fresh start. Jack is an author with writer's block and a looming deadline. He hopes that a quick trip to a remote cabin can bring him the inspiration he needs. His wife, Sienna, is there to support him both with his writing career and their personal life outside of it. It's also revealed that Sienna had an affair with Jack's best friend, and he is struggling to forgive her betrayal. As the couple settles into desolate cabin life, Jack receives a mysterious VHS tape delivery, with an accompanying note that says "Inspiration". Curious, he plays the tape, and what he discovers is a morbid web of psychological terror.
The crux of the film centers around the mysterious "Death Dealer", a figure that exists between life and death. The Death Dealer uses his legion of demons to guide souls to him. He then offers his victims a new chance at life, but only if they face their fears. Eventually, both Jack and Sienna become intimately acquainted with the Death Dealer, much to their horror and terror.
Leaning Into the NSFW Elements
It should be noted that Flesh of the Unforgiven is not a family-friendly film. The opening scene features nudity, gore, and other NSFW elements. At times, it borders on smutty softcore adult content. While it can be argued that this is a necessary storytelling device to portray the bleak environment of this "living hell," at times it does feel a bit too exaggerated. On the contrary, the VFX work is highly impressive, transforming the characters into the darkest, most graphic versions of themselves.
Takeaway
Led by enthusiastic performances from Debbie Rochon and writer/director/co-star Joe Hollow, Flesh of the Unforgiven is a great example of what a low-budget indie horror film can achieve.
'Snorkeling' Review: An Intoxicating Look at Young Love
Acclaimed music video director Emil Nava expands on his stylistic tendencies in his debut feature, Snorkeling. A coming-of-age drama with an edgy and experimental tone, Snorkeling is a fresh take on navigating the haziness of young love and self-discovery. Fans of Euphoria will find a comforting similarity in Snorkeling's handling of drug and social dynamics among the Gen Z demographic.
This is a Love Story
Teenagers Michael (Daniel Zolghadri) and Jameson (Kristine Froseth) are in the throes of a blossoming relationship when they decide to experiment with a risky street drug. The hallucinogenic, called “Snorkeling,” gives the user a momentary sense of escape and relief. Placing the oxygen mask over your nose and mouth and inhaling the powerful fumes creates a fearless, out-of-body fantasy. The sensation is seductive, especially to the high school crowd Michael and Jameson associate with. But soon enough, they discover that the consequences of experimenting with this drug cannot be ignored.
Part Coming-of-Age, Part Psychological Trip
Snorkeling is the result of no-holds-barred self-expression for Emil Nava, who channels his experiences of healing and sobriety into the making of the film. He also leans heavily on his background as an award-winning music video director for artists like Rihanna and Dua Lipa, creating a unique and immersive viewing experience. Visually, the film pops with color and sporadic animation moments, especially during the more psychologically trippy moments. Overall, Snorkeling feels like a compilation of moments stitched together, rather than the traditional format of scenes assembled in an editing room.
Takeaway
Cinematically powerful and musically driven, Snorkeling explores adolescent vulnerability with style, substance, and finesse. Now available to watch on Apple TV, Google Play, and most major digital platforms.