THE FATED HOUR
Based on “The Relationship with the Spirit-World” by Friedrich Laun, filmmaker Peter Hengl‘s Fantasia 2026 atmospheric period short THE FATED HOUR begins in Austria, 1810. Florentine recounts her deceased sister’s supernatural predilections to her fiancé, ultimately warning him of her potential impending destiny.
Seraphine was gifted or afflicted with telepathy, astral projection, and an overwhelming melancholy air. Her inexplicable connection to the spirit world and her ability to receive messages from beyond create a rather chilling existence in 1810. But Florentine’s eternal love for her sister reigns supreme.
Costumes are beautiful. The camerawork, editing, and candlelit rooms lend to a haunting atmosphere. Every aspect of production is divine. Alina Schaller is incredibly compelling as Florentine. You truly hang on every word. Fanny Altenburger, who also provides stunning songwriting and vocals for the film, is mesmerizing as Seraphine, with an ethereal aura.
THE FATED HOUR delves into grief, the indescribable bond between sisters, and even believing women. It’s a genre delight, and extra delicious for us bookish, gothic-loving girlies to get lost in.
Director
Peter Hengl
Executive Producer
David Gregory
Producer
Lola Basara, Kier-La Janisse
Writer
Peter Hengl
Cast
Fanny Altenburger, Daniel Holzberg, Cornelius Obonya, Alina Schaller
100 NIGHTS OF HERO
Religious and political parallels are undeniable magic. The dialogue is a modern version of a bawdy Shakespeare comedy, cleverly tongue-in-cheek and playing right into toxic masculinity. Even our three main characters’ names are pure, double-entendre delight. 100 NIGHTS OF HERO weaves fable, witchcraft, and feminism seamlessly. 
Xenia Patricia
Maika Monroe
THE CRITIC
Lush cinematography and lighting immediately draw you into the narrative alongside McKellen’s iconic voice. From the costumes to the jewel-toned sets, it’s a period drama fans dream.
Sir Ian McKellen is vicious and brilliant. Playing Jimmy Erskine, he is a rather vile curmudgeon who revels in taking down enthusiastic artists and their work. Jimmy is an unapologetic diva. The fear he leaves in his wake destroys careers with the stroke of his pen. McKellen succeeds in making audiences adore a genuine villain.
THE SWEDISH TORPEDO
Frida Kempff brings TIFF 2024 audiences the true story of Sally Bauer, a single mother attempting to swim the English Channel in 1939. THE SWEDISH TORPEDO is a unique and multilayered sports docudrama. It will take you by surprise. 
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I’m not just saying all these nice things because the film happens to feature two of my favorite genre people (and internet friends), Emily Bennett and Toby Poser. Wisner and Temple earn each moment.
Emily plays Ruth with a fearful innocence and tenacity. Bennett has that inarguable “it” factor in transforming for each new role. From 
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Shane Dax Taylor‘s WWII drama imagines the never-before-told story of a secret mission. While all the elements of greatness are there, MURDER COMPANY delivers a rather average film. I never found myself emotionally invested in the characters, which is unfortunate because performances from the entire ensemble deliver solid work. I found myself drifting. The battle scenes felt noticeably repetitive as if a few days had been spent in the same wooded location and shot from only a few different angles. The dialogue suffered the same fate. I couldn’t repeat a single line after watching. The FX were similarly subpar. Bullet holes were glaringly CG, and it was frankly distracting. War films are immense undertakings. Tackling an untold story adds extra scrutiny. Filmmakers should have taken more advantage of Kelsey Grammer‘s abilities. Ultimately, Murder Company waves the white flag.
It stars William Moseley (The Chronicles of Narnia trilogy, “The Royals”), Pooch Hall (“Ray Donovan,” “The Game”), Gilles Marini (Sex and the City, “Switched at Birth”), Joe Anderson (Across the Universe, The Crazies), and Kelsey Grammer (“Cheers,” “Frasier”).
The fragility of Jeanne’s station and extraordinary influence are beautifully nurtured by Lavernhe’s continuous narration.
Benjamin Lavernhe delivers an unforgettable performance as La Borde. He is Jeanne’s guide to life at court and the only entirely human interaction anyone encounters. Lavernhe is the emotional stronghold of the film. 
Maïwenn gives Jeanne a ceaselessly passionate and curious air. Her gentle elegance and care for her fellow actors beam off the screen. She is nothing less than captivating. Depp and Maïwenn’s chemistry is off the charts. She and Lavernhe take your breath away.
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