‘MOM’ (2025) Emily Hampshire wows in this visceral watch. It will haunt your soul.

Uncork'dEntertainment_Logo_CurrentMOM

Mom poster

Being a mom to a newborn is overwhelming. The isolation, judgemental eyes, unsolicited advice, sleep deprivation, and the death of your former self can eat you alive. There is no way to adequately explain the transformation of our mental, emotional, and physical being unless you have experienced it personally. Adam O’Brien brings audiences a film that tackles all these elements with a horror twist. MOM stars Emily Hampshire as a new mother struggling to connect with her newborn son. Her unforgiving husband only exacerbates each new challenge, leading to the darkest outcomes for this little family.

Mom Jared and Meredith - Rotten Tomatoes - [www.rottentomatoes.com]As a mother of two, I will never forget those days of newborn life. Lack of sleep almost drove me to the edge. In MOM, Hampshire skillfully captures the nuance of first-time parenting like I have never seen portrayed onscreen before. Screenwriter Philip Kalin-Hajdu combines each new hardship with unresolved trauma, and the marriage of those two stories makes for the perfect storytelling storm.

François Arnaud is loathsome, which means he is doing a fantastic job. His careless reactionary blaming makes him punchable. Arnaud’s version of Jared will make you want to scream. Mothers will immediately recognize the pattern of behavior.

Mom Pictures - Rotten Tomatoes - [www.rottentomatoes.com]Emily Hampshire nails this role. Her chameleon abilities shine once again in Meredith. Hampshire is so compelling you cannot take your eyes off her. She delivers an emotional torrent that burrows into your psyche. It is truly startling.

The editing, sound, and cinematography are fantastic. Often jarring in nature, they match the tone from the first frame. MOM delves into the stress of default parenting, the impossible expectations we put on women, the pressure to bond, and the insurmountable grief that digs into your soul. The film is a physical manifestation of PPD and unresolved trauma. MOM is a hauntingly visceral watch. You will feel it in your bones.

MOM Trailer:


Uncork’d Entertainment will release the postpartum horror MOM in select theaters beginning February 7 before arriving on digital/VOD platforms on February 11.

Starring Emily Hampshire, known for her acclaimed role in “Schitt’s Creek,” the film made its world premiere at Glasgow FrightFest in 2024, receiving praise for its haunting exploration of motherhood and psychological trauma.

MOM follows a struggling mother (Hampshire) who is abandoned by her family and partner after a horrific incident. As she falls further into isolation, she begins to be haunted by a sinister entity that is determined to make her relive her darkest moments. Delving into the darker side of motherhood, Mom is an intelligent and original take on the family-based horror story.

Directed by Adam O’Brien and written by Philip Kalin-Hajdu, the film also stars François Arnaud (Marlowe) and Christian Convery (Cocaine Bear). Producing are Delirium Pictures and Kinetic Film Group.

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‘BIRDEATER’ (2025) Unhinged, toxic, and jarring brilliance.

Dark Sky Films LogoBIRDEATER

A Visually Striking Psychological Thriller From Australian Directing Duo Jack Clark and Jim Weir

birdeater poster

The debut feature of writer-directors Jack Clark and Jim Weir is unhinged. There is something off about Irene and Louie’s relationship. It is filled with emotional and psychological abuse, gaslighting, and lies. Louie is a control freak. He and Irene are a match made in trauma heaven. In BIRDEATER, the truth is a timebomb.  

Birdeater_DinnerEnsembleSecrets, awkward first meetings, hyper-toxic masculinity, and ketamine collide in one of the most one of the most tension-filled narratives I’ve seen. A stag week, including Irene, goes off the rails when the past and present come to light.

Birdeater_SamIreneThe script is a complex push and pull of who knows what and when. Forty minutes in a massive cloud of mystery looms over this bachelor weekend. Clark and Weir deliver characters that crawl under your skin and burrow into your brain whether you like it or not. This is what happens when a control freak loses control. 

Birdeater_LouieStagAggressive straight-to-camera looks feel like an invasion of the audience. Each one is more jarring than the next. The camera work is dizzying and immersive. The upbeat, celebratory soundtrack comes off as sinister amongst the feral behavior. The editing deserves an award. 

Birdeater_UteBush 2Performances are extraordinary. The ensemble cast nails every beat. Each character is loathsome in their own way, either because they are self-righteous, weak, or revenge-driven. The final 30 minutes are explosive. BIRDEATER will f*ck you up. 

Birdeater Trailer:

Opening In Theaters and on Digital Platforms January 10th



Official Film Synopsis:

A bride-to-be is invited to join her own fiancé’s bachelor party on a remote property in the Australian outback. But as the festivities spiral into beer-soaked chaos, uncomfortable details about their relationship are exposed, and the celebration soon becomes a feral nightmare.



IN THEATERS – JANUARY 10th

(additional theaters to be added)

Albuquerque: Guild Cinema

Austin: Alamo Drafthouse Mueller Austin Mueller

Boston: Alamo Drafthouse Boston Seaport

Chicago: Alamo Drafthouse Wrigleyville

Columbus: Gateway Film Center

Dallas: Alamo Drafthouse Denton

Denver: Alamo Westminster

Los Angeles: Alamo Drafthouse Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles: Laemmle Glendale

New York: Alamo Drafthouse Lower Manhattan

New York: IFC Center

Phoenix: Harkins Gateway Pavilions



ON DIGITAL – JANUARY 10th

Apple TV

Fandango at Home (US)

Google Play (US & CA)

Microsoft Movies & TV (US & CA)

Prime Video (US)



BIRDEATER

Directed by: Jack Clark, Jim Weir

Written by: Jack Clark

Produced by: Stephanie Troost, Ulysses Oliver

Language: English

Genre: Thriller

Distributor: Dark Sky Films

Run Time: 115 minutes

Cast: Birdeater_DinnerEnsemble

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‘LADY LIKE’ (2025) Passion, Fashion, Dance, and Discovery. Lady Camden’s journey to happiness.


LADY LIKE

lady like poster

Starting with a bang, Luke WillisLADY LIKE is hands down the best film from a Drag Race alumni. Rex Wheeler had big dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. After attending the world’s most prestigious school, a slipped disc altered his path and made way for an equally celebratory expression of talent. Enter Lady Camden.

lady like young rexThe structure is a mix of real-time anxiety about the airing episodes, Rex’s extraordinary ballet training, and unresolved childhood trauma. After her first win, Lady Camden’s popularity skyrockets. But the film never lets us forget the immense work that goes into this art. 

lady like balletDelving into family and friend dynamics is vital to Rex’s well-being. There is an unfiltered honesty that hits you square in the chest. Transitions are eye-catching animation sequences that also serve as explanations for any viewer unfamiliar with Drag Race. Nina West, a darling of the show’s legacy, narrates. It is the perfect pairing for Lady Camden and Rex. 

lady like finaleThe film is beautifully shot and emotionally edited. There is love infused in making this film. A visceral joy of becoming who we always dreamed we’d be bursts off the screen. LADY LIKE is a must-see. 

Lady Camden Doc LADY LIKE Comes to VOD
Festival Favorite About Drag Race Breakout
Launches on Cable and Streaming
From Freestyle Digital Media January 3, 2025




In this rags to riches origin story, drag superstar Lady Camden is catapulted into the spotlight when she becomes a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race. As she struggles with the new demands of fame, she must come to terms with a troubled childhood.

The fairy-tale life of RuPaul’s Drag Race star, Lady Camden, shines in Luke Willis’ intimate and joyous documentary as it traces her launch to international fame while diving into a dark past that drove her to seek the fantasy of the performing arts.

Narrated by fellow Drag Race star Nina West, director Luke Willis’ intimate documentary traces Camden’s journey, giving us a front-row-seat on her path to find her confidence, her chosen family, and to prove that embracing one’s vulnerable self and artistic core is critical to find healing.

Lady Like: 88 minutes / UK-USA

Preorder on Apple TV

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‘IT’S COMING’ (2024) A Multi-generational American Haunting

freestyle-digital-media-logoIT’S COMING

It's_Coming_2023_film_poster

Filmmaker Shannon Alexander delivers a chilling documentary about one family’s tumultuous home life in IT’S COMING. Ashley Roland has a gift, although she may feel it’s more of a curse. Her ability to see beyond the veil began at age eleven. Now a mother of five children and having moved back to her family’s Brooklyn apartment, entities are haunting everyone, particularly her young son, Javier. A black figure is making life incredibly frightening.

It's Coming_28Ashley can see and hear spirits. The physical and mental toll is obvious, despite her shockingly calm demeanor. She has become so accustomed to her circumstances, and not much ruffles her feathers, until she realizes how deep the negative energy goes.

The film’s structure features sit-down interviews with Ashley and some of her children. She describes her family history and evolving abilities. Alexander accidentally captures small paranormal incidents on camera, predominantly while Javier and Ashley speak. Blink and you’ll miss it, Alexander seamlessly replays those seconds in slow motion, making audiences aware of what they’ve just witnessed. We also get a glimpse of Ashley’s home security footage. Unsurprisingly, the activity increases when the family addresses them in interviews.

It's_Coming_25Ashley brings in medium Soledad Haren to cleanse the apartment. She provides viewers with paranormal canon, reasons, and triggers for an uptick in activity. It is a solid checklist if you aren’t a connoisseur of this genre. Like clockwork, incidents get worse. An acrid odor pervades their apartment, so intense it triggers CO2 alarms and multiple fire department visits. Soledad returns with her spirit box and performs an automatic writing session, providing few answers and more questions.

It's_Coming_28A husband and wife team of demonologists, Chris and Harmony DeFlorio, arrive with all the electronic bells and whistles. We see their footage intercut with Shannon’s. The results are undeniably unsettling. This is the point where Ashley finally breaks. It is the first time we see her cry and become physically unwell. When you witness the effect on Chris and Harmony, your heart rate increases tenfold. The comparisons to England’s most infamous haunting, The Enfield Poltergeist, are inevitable.

It's ComingJavier’s personality slowly changes throughout the long months of filming. He describes a growing friendship with the black entity he calls Kitty. If you know anything about the paranormal, you understand how dangerous this is. You can track what looks like disassociation creeping onto his face. Something is affecting this child, whether it’s his mother’s energy or something genuinely sinister is up to the viewer, but I’ve not been this disturbed by a paranormal documentary in a long time. The final scene will send a shiver down your spine. IT’S COMING will haunt your mind long after the credits roll. You’ll question everything.


IT’S COMING Trailer:

“It’s Coming” which debuted at Hot Docs, is being released by Freestyle Digital Media in North America on November 12th.

Synopsis:
Ashley Roland, a wife and mother of 5, has been beset by supernatural entities since the age of 11. After returning to her family’s ancestral Brooklyn apartment, she begins to witness strange events in her home and learns that her children are now experiencing the same. As the paranormal encounters begin to escalate, Ashley attempts to rid her house of malevolent spirits along with specialists in the field.

Website
https://itscomingfilm.com/

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‘FILTHY ANIMALS’ (2024) Superbly unhinged vigilante shit, and that’s a compliment.

freestyle-digital-media-logoFILTHY ANIMALS

Filthy Animals poster

James T. North provides audiences with delicious and wickedly dark humor in his latest film. Set on Christmas Eve, FILTHY ANIMALS tells the story of two misfits, Lars, a thrill-seeking drug enthusiast, and Freddy, a bodybuilder recently out of rehab, who hunt down child sexual predators.

FilthyAnimals_grd04_Rec709_1.529.1.png - Powered by Box - app.box.comThis oddball team of modern-day outlaws fearlessly tracks down society’s worst with hypnotic nonchalance. It is no wonder the film had a field day on the festival circuit—the cast rules. Raymond S. Barry is phenomenal as Lester. Mena Elizabeth Santos is equally deranged, letting the intrusive thoughts win.

FilthyAnimals_grd04_Rec709_1.624.1.tif - Powered by Box - app.box.comRyan Patrick Brown delivers an unexpectedly gentle turn as Freddy. Focusing on gains rather than violence, his love for his Baba and adoration for Westerns fit perfectly into this weird puzzle. Austan Wheeler delivers a comedically unhinged performance playing Lars. He is a coked-up loose cannon and motivator/bad influence for Freddy. Wheeler’s toxic aggression gets a pass due to his vigilante goals.

FILTHY ANIMALS standoff stillRobby Ngai‘s editing is applause-worthy. North provides enough meat to expand into a series. There is much to explore within these characters. Each one deserves an entire episode for their backstory.

FilthyAnimals_grd04_Rec709_1.945.1.png - Powered by Box - app.box.comThe film celebrates the morally grey areas of life. The fantasy sequences bleed into the narrative like a gift. Memorable, singular, and sensorial FILTHY ANIMALS is the epitome of cult indie filmmaking.


 
Freestyle Digital Media’s newest crime thriller FILTHY ANIMALS with a Western, holiday twist, opens in select theaters and will be available on VOD on Friday, December 13th.

 

Written and Directed by JAMES T. NORTH

Produced by ELYUSHA VAFAEISEFAT, KENDRA GAGE NORTH, and JAMES T. NORTH

Starring RYAN PATRICK BROWN, AUSTAN WHEELER, MENA ELIZABETH SANTOS, PETER LARNEY, and RAYMOND J. BARRY

96 minutes | Crime, Thriller | 2024 | English | USA

MPA Rated R for language, violence, sexual references, drug material

 

Official Site: www.filthyanimalsmovie.com

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11468144/

Instagram: @FilthyAnimalsMovie

Facebook: @FilthyAnimalsMovie

X: @FilthyAnimalzzz

#FilthyAnimalsMovie    #ABadDayInTheSouthBay

 

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super clone watches

‘YEAR 10’ (2024) A frightening glimpse into humanity’s darkness. What can we learn from this dialogue-less apocalyptic thriller?

Blue fox LogoYEAR 10

Year 10 poster

In a post-apocalyptic world of cannibals, a man (Toby Goodger) fights wild dogs, nature, and a violent tribe to save his love (Hannah Khalique-Brown) and avenge his father (Duncan Lacroix).


Filmmaker Benjamin Goodger brings audiences a pulse-pounding apocalyptic thriller in YEAR 10. After the world has turned to cannibalism, one man embarks on a dangerous journey of vengeance and medicine to save the woman he loves. 

Year10_Grab000002Somber natural lighting sets the tone for Year 10 from the get-go. The sweeping and ominous score plunges us deep into this near-future reality of sadness and violence. The team raises the bar even further by including heartbeat sounds, heavy drums, and dazzling strings. 

year 10 still 2The film is a genuine family affair. Scan the credits for the many Goodgers involved in this magnificent production. Charlie Googger‘s handheld camera work is immersive and beautifully choreographed.  Year 10 is quite a feat. This feature-length film with zero dialogue captivates with stunning performances wrought with panic and desperation. Toby Goodger is outstanding. His furious passion and fearless energy carry the entire movie. 

year 10 Toby goodgerThe script juxtaposes two survival styles, one of heart and kindness, and the other savagely selfish and brutal. The lack of dialogue never lessens the intensity. If anything, it allows raw emotion to convey each beat. YEAR 10 taps into the best and worst of humanity’s most feral instincts.


Year 10 Trailer:

YEAR 10 – Intense Apocalyptic Thriller In theaters and on VOD December 6th


Genre: Horror/Sci-fi / Apocalyptic Thriller
Distributor: Blue Fox Entertainment
Production company: Family Pictures
Directed by: Ben Goodger
Written by: Ben Goodger
Produced by: Bill Kenwright
Executive Producers: David Gilbery, Naomi George
Cast:Toby Goodger, Duncan Lacroix, Hannah Khalique-Brown, Luke Massy, Emma Cole, Alexander Anderson, King Gayle, Jessica Zerlina-Leafe, Tom Gaskin
Logline: In a post-apocalyptic world, a man battles cannibals and wild dogs to save his love and avenge his father.
Synopsis: 10 Years after the fall of civilization, cannibalism has become the only option for humanity’s dwindling survivors. When a violent tribe murders his father and steals the medicine keeping his love interest alive, our protagonist must embark on a treacherous journey battling the elements, packs of vicious wild dogs, and the cannibal group, or else lose the only thing he has left.

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21154574
Runtime: 97 minutes
Country: UK
Language: English

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‘THE FIX’ (2024) A runaway train of complex storytelling and visual intrigue.

gravitaslogo2020THE FIX

TheFix_ PosterFilmmaker Kelsey Egan brings audiences THE FIX. The near future film occurs where toxic air is slowly poisoning the population, and only the wealthy have access to treatment. Ella exists in the shadow of her recently deceased supermodel mother. Thinking she’s taking a party drug, Ella accidentally ingests an experimental synthetic, causing accelerated and unpredictable mutations inside and out. Ella becomes the target of both the drug dealers and global big pharma Aethera. THE FIX is much more nuanced and endlessly intriguing. It is sci-fi, action, thriller, and everything in between. 

THE FIX_Master_Frame Grab_01.09.39.18Icon Clancy Brown plays Aethera patriarch. Anytime he appears in a film, it elevates the entire production. Robyn Rossouw delivers a fear-soaked performance as Ella’s best friend, Gina. Huge accolades for Keenan Harrison and Tina Redman as they prove their acting chops, but I’ll let you discover their vital roles on your own. It is truly A+ work from both.

Daniel Sharman gives Eric zen confidence before revealing a sinister motive. The arrogance pours off of him. He is perfectly punchable in his underlying deep-seated daddy issues and self-loathing. Grace Van Dien (Stranger Things) owns this film. She gives Ella similar energy to Mila Jovovich in the Resident Evil franchise. Van Dien is an effortless badass. With each new role, she proves her talent. I hope she’s getting the dollar amount she deserves.

THE FIX_Master_Frame Grab_01.23.13.21Production is spectacular. Props are sleek, costumes are clean but unique, and the sets are just as applause-worthy in their minimalist glory. The special FX makeup team gives us top-notch originality. Read More – Bizzbuzz.news is one of the top sites that gives you latest on super clone watches.

The script mimics global politics with a razor-sharp edge. COVID is undoubtedly an inspiration, and the similarities to something like Spiderman are undeniable, but THE FIX offers a unique version of the origin story trope. Beautifully woven into Egan’s work, you cannot miss the magical creature allegory.

The Fix (2024) - www.imdb.comTHE FIX could seamlessly expand into a multiple-season series. There is so much well-developed canon that audiences would tune in without hesitation. Tackling ethics, capitalism, and the fragility of humanity, THE FIX has arrived to entertain and challenge.

The Fix Trailer:

Available on VOD this Friday, November 22nd



Synopsis

A toxic compound infects Earth’s atmosphere. Pharmaceutical giant, Aethera, sells immunity… but most can’t afford the daily dose. When a troubled model takes a new drug at a party, she suffers a shocking transformation. Pursued by a dangerous gang and authorities in cahoots with Aethera, she hunts for a “fix” to reverse the drug’s effects, only to discover her mutations may be the key to saving the human race.


Director: Kelsey Egan

Producers: Greig Buckle, Allison Friedman, Jeremy Walton, David Lyons and Egan

Executive Producers: Showmax, Moo Studios and Van Dien.

Cast: Grace Van Dien, Daniel Sharman, Keenan Arrison, Tina Redman, Robyn Rossouw, Tafara Nyatsanza, Nicole Fortuin and Clancy Brown

Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller

Language: English

Runtime: 98 minutes

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‘THE SHADE’ (2024) A slow burn of manifested grief and reclamation of power.

level 33 logoTHE SHADE

THE_SHADE_poster

Filmmaker Tyler Chipman brings us the tale of a young man reeling in the aftermath of unresolved childhood trauma. THE SHADE is a slow spiral into darkness. 

Ryan is the middle child and the man of the house since his father’s death. He is someone who tries and fails to hide all the pain. Upon the unscheduled return of his older brother into the house, Ryan must confront the demons lurking just beneath the surface or else.

It’s so nice to see Brendan Sexton III again. He is such a force of nature and a fantastic addition. Germain Arroyo is Ryan’s best friend, Nicholas. His energy is a much-needed break from the sullen overtone. He is a star. 

TheShade_Still06_1920x1080Laura Benanti plays the family matriarch, Renee. She adds authentic warmth to every role. Even if her scenes are few and far between, she steals every single one. Dylan McTee plays the eldest brother, Jason. He exudes hurt with an overly aggressive demeanor that perfectly suits the role. 

Chris Galust gives Ryan a wounded exhaustion that pours off him. Suffering from unspeakable childhood trauma all while trying to keep his chaotic family together, Galust delivers an emotional rollercoaster, panic attacks and all. 

TheShade_Still07_1920x1080There are a few particularly memorable shots by cinematographer Tom Fitzgerald. Heather Benson and the makeup department give us startling work. They deserve all the applause. 

The film is a slow burn with a tense low vibration under each beat. It is 45 minutes until the menace manifests outside the immense toxicity between the two eldest brothers. Ten minutes later, a chill goes down your spine. 

TheShade_Still01_1920x1080What gets the pulse-pounding is undeniably well done. Chipman and cowriter David Purdy use dreams as a gateway to terror. Perry Blackshear‘s WHEN I CONSUME YOU would be a great companion watch for THE SHADE. Similar themes weave throughout both films. Come to think of it, add Jennifer Kent’s THE BABADOOK to that list. 

Mental health, anguish, and horror combined to create a unique narrative approach. My advice to audiences is to be patient. Focus on the performances and the underlying metaphor. It is a powerful payoff.

The Shade Trailer:

THE SHADE

AVAILABLE ON DEMAND

11.22.24



127 MIN | THRILLER | HORROR | DRAMA | PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER | NR TV-14



MULTIPLE FESTIVAL AWARD WINNER!

WINNER Best Special Effects – Days of the Dead Film Festival

WINNER Best Directing – Days of the Dead Film Festival

WINNER Best First Time Filmmaker – Days of the Dead Film Festival

WINNER Jury Award Best Feature Film – Snowdance Independent Film Festival

WINNER Silver Audience Award – Brooklyn Horror Film Festival

WINNER Jury Prize Best Feature Film Director – FogFest

WINNER Jury Prize Best Actor in a Feature Film Chris Galust – FogFest

WINNER Jury Prize Best Feature Film – FogFest

NOMINATED Best Feature Film, Best Villain, Best in Show, Best Actor Chris Galust,

Best Stunts, Best Cinematography, Best Ensemble Cast, Best Production Design – Days of the Dead Film Festival

NOMINATED Best Writing – FogFest



Directed by

Tyler Chipman



Written by

Tyler Chipman and David Purdy



Produced by

David Purdy



Director of Photography

Acton Fitzgerald


Starring

Chris Galust, Laura Benanti, Dylan McTee, Mariel Molino, Germain Arroyo, Brendan Sexton III, Sam Duncan, Michael Boatman


SYNOPSIS

Ryan Beckman, a 20-year-old college student from a declining town in the northeast, struggles with a debilitating anxiety disorder following his father’s death. His older brother, Jason, returns home unexpectedly while battling his own demons. Together with his younger brother James, Ryan struggles to break the destructive cycle threatening their family as an ancient darkness closes in on them.




RATING: NR TV-PG

RUN-TIME: 127 minutes

THEATRICAL RELEASE: September 20th

DIGITAL RELEASE: November 22nd

STUDIO/DISTRIBUTOR: Level 33 Entertainment

GENRE: Drama, Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Horror

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‘CELLAR DOOR’ (2024) A solid thriller with a killer ending.

lionsgate logoCELLAR DOOR

cellar door poster

Director Vaughn Stein brings us CELLAR DOOR. Following a loss, couple John and Sera seek a new beginning. A mysterious man offers to gift them his elegant home. But, it comes with one unusual caveat. They must never open the cellar door.

Laurence Fishburne is Emmett Claymore. His iconic presence and voice offer equal parts comfort and sinister edge. Scott Speedman is John. This anxiety-soaked performance keeps you on the edge of your seat, reeling you into the slow-creeping plot. Jordana Brewster is Sera. She offers enthusiasm and hope through her grief, which feels wholeheartedly inspiring. Writers allow her to pull off an illusion that makes the film something special. Speedman and Brewtser’s chemistry is solid.

Cellar Door Pictures - Rotten Tomatoes - www.rottentomatoes.comThe set is marvelous. Wood-paneled rooms mixed with modern updates, a sprawling terrace, and an exterior straight out of Great Expectations, the audience falls in love with the house at first glance.

Screenwriters Sam Scott and Lori Evans Taylor toy with our emotions. The mystery simmers, and what we don’t see creates a boundless tension. The plot has sprinkles of What Lies Beneath and Gone Girl, focusing on themes of temptation, betrayals, secrets, and boundaries. CELLAR DOOR delivers a classic, tense build-up of scenarios, boasting a delicious final twist. It’s the best of the Faustian subgenre.

Cellar Door Trailer:

In Select Theaters and On Digital November 1st

Directed by: Vaughn Stein

Written by: Sam Scott & Lori Evans Taylor

Starring: Jordana Brewster, Scott Speedman, Laurence Fishburne

Produced by: Tom Butterfield, John Papsidera, Craig Perry, Sheila Hanahan

~

Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Runtime: 97 Mins

Looking for a fresh start after a miscarriage, a couple (Brewster and Speedman) find themselves being gifted the house of their dreams from a wealthy homeowner (Fishburne) with one caveat – they can never open the cellar door. Whether they can live without knowing triggers shocking consequences.

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‘THE HOUSE FROM’ (2024) A nostalgia-filled, pop culture delight.

smodfest 2024 selectionTHE HOUSE FROM
The House From... (2024) - www.imdb.com

Tommy Avallone‘s film delves into the positive and negative effects of being the homeowner of famous homes. Jason Lee narrates with his perfectly delicious tone and delivery. From Twilight to Home Alone, and Full House to Sex And The City, THE HOUSE FROM is every movie and television fan’s dream doc.

The House From Full HouseThe editing is clever. For example, one former owner of Jesse’s house in Breaking Bad house was a teacher, so Avallone cuts to scenes of Walter White in his chemistry classroom. She was able to buy her son his first car from the profits of filming. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the current owner of Walter White’s house aggressively hates tourists.

The House From FridayTHE HOUSE FROM counters this negative fan experience with the owner of The Goonies‘ home. Susan Preston got a bad rap. This redemptive story is authentically heartwarming. Bushnell Ave, in South Pasadena, is the ultimate film fan’s dream. From Back to the Future to Old School, it boasts several famous houses, and the owners love the fans. The Rubio House in Altadena is iconic. I lost track of the number of films and television shows listed by the owner, Liz. Ethan Embry visits the house, and his excitement and nostalgia are infectious.

The House From Home AloneThe doc also uses TikTok and other social media clips of fan visits. The behind-the-scenes footage from Home Alone takes the cake. The lovely neighbors across the street took camcorder video from their front yard during the 1990 production, and it is a coup for Gen X and Millennials.

Some locations become pilgrimages, delivering the warm fuzzies and catharsis for fans. From museums to Airbnbs, whether these locations are now for-profit venues or warm family homes, THE HOUSE FROM is a joy from start to finish. Audiences will find themselves smiling and maybe even digging up some old VHS tapes from their parent’s basements after the credits roll. Speaking of, stick around for even more fun.

The House From Trailer:


The documentary premiered at Kevin Smith’s Smodcastle Film Festival in New Jersey on October 25, 2024. It will be released on Fubo and executive producer Ryan Reynolds’ Maximum Effort Channel on October 27, 2024, and will be available on VOD platforms the next day.

 

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‘Me, Myself & The Void’ (2024) Interview with filmmaker Tim Hautekiet about his mind-bending indie gem.

Me, Myself & The Void

me Myself & the Void poster

ME, MYSELF & THE VOID is one of the year’s most inventive films. I got to chat with filmmaker Tim Hautekiet about the entire process. You can find a few Behind-The-Scenes photos and our conversation below. Do not miss this one. You have no excuse since the film is on VOD right now!! 

Synopsis: Trapped in a mysterious void outside the bounds of time and space, a struggling stand-up comedian must investigate how his body wound up motionless on his bathroom floor and wake himself up before it’s too late.


Tim! Congratulations on such a unique, engaging, and endlessly funny film. What sparked this screenplay and where did you start? The mystery aspect is delicious. You had me think everyone was guilty at any given time. 


My co-writer Nik Oldershaw and I spent a long time trying to figure out how to crack the hook of the film. We knew we liked the idea of a film set in a void world with minimalistic props and set design portraying the locations to the audience but we didn’t have a story that tied it all together. Once we landed on the idea that it was going to be about a character who was trapped inside a void world and was going to have to investigate his own memories to identify how he wound up there, that’s when we first saw the true shape of the story. We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the mystery aspect as that’s definitely what compelled us to write the story and figure out who Jack really was. me Myself & the Void still 22. The varying visual aspects are so cool, from the black and white to the halo effect. Those specificities keep the audience relatively grounded in Jack’s chaotic “space and time.” What did this storyboarding look like? With all the elements involved, I imagine it was a huge wall or an entire room.


We used a variety of different techniques to visualize everything. We had a very tight shot list and I got to collaborate with Conor Fitzgerald to create certain key frames from the film in order to be able to better communicate with our various department heads. For some of the more complicated sequences, I worked with a storyboard artist called Sam Vest. In particular, sequences where Jack tries to move his body in the void world and that then causes movement in the real world.

3. How many days did you shoot for, and (speaking of visuals) how long did the editing take? 


We shot for 15 days in November 2021 and then did a single pick up day the following summer. We started editing as soon as the film was wrapped and the edit took approximately a year because it was a small team of myself, Ryan Turner, and Ryan Blewett jumping in whenever we could. The process worked quite well to keep things fresh, you’d hand over the edit and then get to see it again with fresh eyes after the next editor put their spin on it.me Myself & the Void still 14. Can you tell us about casting Kelly Marie, Chris, and Jack? Their chemistry is magic. Did you let them play with dialogue during the shoot?


I’d been a fan of Chris and Jack for a long time and had enjoyed the pleasure of working with them on two different short sketch projects prior to reaching out to them about Me, Myself & The Void. They are incredibly gifted improvisers so if time allowed on set, we’d let them run with a couple of alternative takes if we already had a take that was true to the production script.

As for Kelly, I hadn’t worked with her before but she and Jack briefly shared a scene in “Sorry For Your Loss” and I remember thinking they performed so well together. She’s also got incredible comedy chops and watching her bounce off Chris and Jack in a scene was always fun to watch.

I’m so proud of the entire cast. Jack, Chris, Kelly, Akilah Hughes, James Babson, Kristin Carey, and Darren Durpree Washington… Not to forget Gio Randazzo who played Jack’s body double. We couldn’t have made this film without them.BTS 1 Me, Myself, & the Void5. The set is incredible. As a theatre nerd, it was immersive enough for the imagination to fill in the blanks and for the cast to play on. How did you decide on a unit set?


Thank you so much! Our production designer Katie Theel, art director Bethany Struble, and their entire team really outdid themselves. They had to build the full apartment set first and then slowly strip it away as we entered the void. We thought it could present an interesting opportunity to make various set design elements crucial to the story. What pieces need to remain in order for the audience to still grasp the shape of where our characters are in the void.


BTS 2 Me, Myself, & the Void6. Would you and Nik consider a franchise with new characters? I would be the first person watching the interactions of other people’s minds swirling with what-ifs!


Haha! I’ll confess we conceived of this project as a one-off but never say never. We loved making this film and if the opportunity to do another psychological “void” deep dive into a character presented itself, we’d certainly consider it.


Thank you so much for chatting about Me, Myself, & the Void. It’s a total gem, that took me off guard in all the best ways, so all my applause to you!

Me, Myself, & The Void Trailer:

You can check out Me, Myself & The Void on VOD now!!

 

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‘GHOST GAME’ (2024) Scary scenarios combine for one entertaining spooky season watch. On VOD today!

dread logoGHOST GAME

ghost game poster

Jill Gevargizian (Aka Jill Sixx) brings us her sophomore feature, GHOST GAME. A group of internet thrill seekers bounces from house to house, playing pranks on the owners, all while stealthily spending as many nights there as possible. Laura convinces her new boyfriend to join her at the notorious Halton House, a place with a horrific past.

The mixed visual approach engages us with reenactments, surveillance footage, Travel Channel-esque ghost story TV spots, and DP Justin Brooks’s immersive real-time cinematography. The FX team does an excellent job.

Ghost Game Pictures - Rotten Tomatoes - www.rottentomatoes.comI have mad love for The Stylist, so it’s no surprise that GHOST GAME entertained the hell out of me. I’ve been following the film since its inception since I’m “internet friends” with Jill and cast member Emily Bennett (Alone With You). As broad as the horror community is, it’s also incredibly small, in the best way. Ps-in case you already didn’t know, they both rule. Genre filmmaking from a femme-centric lens hits differently.

Speaking of Emily, her performance as a protective mother is drastically different from her previous roles. Meg is life-weary as they arrive at the new house. Watching Bennett navigate Meg’s arc is oh-so-satisfying. She is securing her spot as a Scream Queen.

ghost game atticAs an Autism Parent, Vienna Maas does a lovely job portraying Sam, a child on the spectrum. Writer Adam Cesare handles it with such care. I genuinely appreciated both the delicate touch and the representation, so cheers.

Sam Lukowski is Laura’s hyper-aggressive Ghost Game partner, Adrian. Lukowski’s toxic masculinity seeps from his pores. His demise is welcome. Zaen Haidar is her boyfriend, Vin. His performance improves as the plot thickens and the character grows a pair.

ghost game camera footageAidan Hughes is hands down one of the best players in this ensemble. His chameleon shifting is bone-chilling. Kia Dorsey gives Laura a fearless passion. She begs your attention in the morally grey area she exists in. She effortlessly leads this large cast, and I look forward to whatever comes next. Casting directors, get your eyes on her ASAP.

GHOST GAME combines three separate storylines to create an increasingly tense buildup. To be clear, this is not a found footage film, it’s a screen life clout film told from a way more intriguing angle. It’s a solid watch for Spooky Season.

GHOST GAME Trailer:

Epic Pictures’ specialty horror label DREAD presents GHOST GAME, following a couple’s internet challenge that turns fatal as they trespass into a haunted house, facing sinister evils lurking within its walls. GHOST GAME will have a limited theatrical run beginning October 18, and on October 22 the film will be available to rent or purchase on video-on-demand (VOD). The film will be available on Blu-ray beginning December 10.

GHOST GAME is the second directorial feature from Jill Gevargizian, best known for her feature debut THE STYLIST, which developed from an award-winning short film of the same title and debuted in 2020 from Arrow Video. GHOST GAME premiered at Panic Fest 2024 where Gevargizian won the audience award for Best Director.

Epic Pictures CEO Patrick Ewald says, “Jill’s debut film THE STYLIST was nothing short of transformative, a truly one-of-a-kind experience. So, I knew she’d infuse GHOST GAME with her signature spine-tingling brilliance. Her vision is as daring as it is haunting, and we can’t wait for audiences to be utterly captivated by this electrifying DREAD original.”

“It was a dream to tackle two iconic horror sub-genres at once: a home invasion thriller mixed with a classic haunted house film.” says director Jill Gevargizian. “GHOST GAME is the kind of film that keeps you on your toes, peeling back layer after layer until the very last frame.”

The official synopsis for the film reads: As part of an internet challenge to live undetected in a stranger’s home, a daring couple target an infamous haunted house and endure a series of chilling incidents as they witness a family descending into madness.

GHOST GAME is directed by Jill Gevargizian (The Stylist) and written by Adam Cesare (Last Night at Terrace Lanes). Starring Kia Dorsey (The Man in the Guesthouse, Secrets in the Building, A Date with Deception), Zaen Haidar, Michael C. Williams (The Blair Witch Project), Emily Bennett (Shelby Oaks, Alone With You), Sam Lukowski (Satanic Hispanics), and Vienna Maas (The Stylist). Produced by Eduardo Sanchez (The Jester, Blair Witch 2: Book of Shadows, Queen of the South), Carlo Glorioso (Satanic Hispanics, V/H/S/2, The Jester), Corey Okouchi (The Jester, Butterfly Kisses, Ninjas vs. Monsters) and Jamie Nash (V/H/S/2, Satanic Hispanics).

About Epic Pictures Group
Founded in 2007, Epic Pictures is an independent content studio with the mission of delivering the best-in-class genre entertainment “for fans, by fans.” Epic Pictures produces, finances, and distributes approximately twenty-thirty independent genre films a year. In 2013, the company established Epic Pictures Releasing which is its US focused distribution division. In 2017, Epic Pictures acquired the world’s most popular horror website, Dread Central, and launched its unique horror label, Dread, followed by its AVOD channel, DreadTV. In 2019, Epic Pictures started the horror gaming site, DreadXP, with a focus on editorial, reviews, podcasts, and original streaming content. In 2020, DreadXP began a video game production and publishing division in collaboration with some of the most innovative developers in the independent gaming space.

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‘FALLING STARS’ (2024) Living lore and the consequences of disrespect.

XYZ logoFALLING STARS

Falling Stars poster

Witches are real in the feature debut of director/producer duo Gabriel Bienczycki and Richard Karpala‘s FALLING STARS. On the first night of Harvest, three brothers go to the desert to see a witch’s corpse.

The film exists in a world where deeply embedded folklore is canon. While our boys initially visit the site with an excited and carefree attitude, their fear becomes palpable when they accidentally desecrate the body.

Falling_Stars_03There is a reminiscent feeling in FALLING STARS, some that reminds me of 80s classics like The Gate and The Lost Boys, with the glow of red dashboard hues, flashlights, and the moon being the dominant lighting sources. The cinematography by Bienczycki has an intimacy to it. Karpala’s screenplay is just downright cool. It is genuinely refreshing to witness masculinity based on regret and an apologetic undertone.

This ensemble cast is fantastic. Diane Worman plays the boys’ mother, Danni. She delivers a magnificent arc. Rene Leech gives Adam authentic baby brother energy with a need to please and an impressionable mind.

Falling_Stars_01J. Aaron Boykin is the mainstay of this film. As radio DJ Barry, he opens the film and acts as a narrative conduit for Mike’s panic. Andrew Gabriel is Sal, the middle brother. His caring nature and fixer attitude beg your attention. Shaun Duke Jr. gives Mike a tentative bravery and a strong sense of responsibility. He is the protector, for better or for worse.

FALLING STARS is a unique revenge horror that digs into witch lore, respecting tradition and an immaculate political undertone. Boasting a jaw-dropping and cinematically stunning finale, it’s a bit of pure genre magic.


FALLING STARS Trailer:

The acclaimed folk horror film arrives on VOD and in select U.S. cinemas on Friday, October 11th!

 

FALLING STARS is the feature debut of director/producer duo Richard Karpala and Gabriel Bienczycki, featuring an original screenplay by Karpala and cinematography by Bienczycki.

Starring Rene Leech, Shaun Duke Jr., Andrew Gabriel, Diane Worman, and Greg Poppa, the film World Premiered on the Piazza Grande at the Locarno Film Festival and went on to screen at Fantastic Fest, Calgary Underground, Splat! Film Fest, and more.

 

About XYZ Films 
XYZ Films is an independent studio whose mission is to empower visionary storytellers from every corner of the planet. XYZ was founded in 2008 by Nate Bolotin, Nick Spicer, and Aram Tertzakian and has expanded in recent years into documentary, talent management, and distribution. Some of the company’s classic titles include THE RAID franchise, 2017 Sundance winner I DON’T FEEL AT HOME IN THIS WORLD ANYMORE, and Panos Cosmatos’ psychedelic revenge thriller MANDY.

 

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‘ME, MYSELF, & THE VOID’ (2024) Comedy, mental health, and a mystery.

ME, MYSELF, & THE VOID

me Myself & the Void poster

Tim Hautekiet‘s Me, Myself, & the Void follows comedian Jack after one bad night on stage morphs into an out-of-body experience when he wakes up in a rudimentary version of his apartment, looking over his body on the bathroom floor, with no idea what’s going on. Alongside the manifested versions of his best friend and ex-girlfriend, Jack must navigate through his issues and fading memories to figure out how he got there before it’s too late.

me Myself & the Void still 2The film boasts visually engaging elements, including a stage production style set, black-and-white flashback moments, and a halo effect when Jack and Chris step into a memory. The editing is as fast-paced as the dialogue. Hautekiet and co-writer Nik Oldershaw never give you a minute to breathe but certainly laugh. Jack and Chris’ chemistry is dazzling. The entire film plays out like a live improv show, and it’s electric.

me Myself & the Void still 3The entire cast nails each beat. Kelly Marie Tran oozes charm as Mia. She is so watchable and gives Mia a genuine heart. Chris W. Smith delivers honest best-friend vibes. He’s got that sitcom aura in the best way possible. Jack De Sena is spectacular, running through the emotional gambit. He reminds me of Jack Black, with a loveable quality that draws you in. Discovering that Smith is De Sena’s comedy partner in their popular sketch comedy channel Chris and Jack and now the world makes more sense.

me Myself & the Void still 4The script is whip-smart. It is a ping-pong match of wits between best friends through self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. The film is a dizzying whirlwind of meta-purgatory, tackling the incredible nuance in relationships and the importance of communication. It’s about owning your shit. Me, Myself, & the Void is one of the best indie gems of the year.

ME, MYSELF, & THE VOID Trailer:

Out of Body Indie Dramedy Me Myself & The Void
Starring Jack De Sena, Chris W. Smith, & Kelly Marie Tran
Debuts October 1, 2024 from Echobend Pictures
Streaming on Major VOD Platforms Worldwide

 

Me Myself & The Void world premiered at Dances with Films and went on to screen at fests around the world. At FilmQuest, Me Myself & The Void won the award for Best Ensemble Cast and scored nominations for Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Editing and Best Score.

A down on his luck stand-up finds himself in a void world, hovering precariously between life and death. It is in this void that our hero, Jack, must discern how he ended up face down on his bathroom floor and find a way out before it’s too late.

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‘LYVIA’S HOUSE’ (2024) *Sigh* Too much and not enough.

LYVIA’S HOUSE

Lyvia's House poster

Inspired by true events, LYVIA’S HOUSE follows a young journalist who, after moving to a new home with her new lover, begins an investigation into the disappearance of an Italian artist with links to murders that happened 20 years ago.

Danielle Octavien Lyvia's HouseDanielle Octavien plays Tara’s best friend, Helen. She is incredibly natural, and I enjoyed every minute of her screen time. Georgie is the most intriguing character. Andrew Diego‘s commitment to the character’s PTSD and/or neurodivergence is applause-worthy, even if writer Patricia V. Davis writes him as a borderline offensive stereotype.

lyvia's house still 1Johnny is toxic as hell. Joshua Malekos gives audiences an extremely unlikable and manipulative character. He is a gaslighting master, and I wanted nothing more than for him to find a tragic end, regardless of his backstory. Tara Nichol Caldwell is perfectly passable as Tara. Unfortunately, the script does nothing for her, leaving a mediocre and likely forgettable turn.

lyvia's house still 2The script never hides Johnny’s shady leanings. Having masks appear everywhere ends up coming off as hokey. The costumes also make little sense in specific scenes. Honestly, the fact that Tara sticks around is utterly preposterous. The amount of tropes all smashed together makes for a messy finished product. LYVIA’S HOUSE ends up being an overly long, frustrating watch.

LYVIA’S HOUSE Trailer:

Stonecutter Media will release LYVIA’S HOUSE on Vudu/Fandango at Home and local cable & satellite providers, iTunes/Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play, October 1.

 

Directed by: Niko Volonakis

Written by: Patricia V. Davis

Starring: Tara Nichol Caldwell, Joshua Malekos, Danielle Octavien,

Ann Marie Gideon, Andrew Diego, Deborah Tucker, Brit Zane, Cami Oh

Produced by: Patricia V. Davis

Executive Produced by Pete Davis, Nicholas Levis,

Joni Cuquet

Cinematography by: Cody Martin

Edited by: Niko Volonakis

Music Composed by: Niko Volonakis

USA I 2024 I Thriller, Mystery I 116 minutes | NR

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‘HAYRIDE TO HELL’ (2024) Hallmark meets horror and becomes my new annual Halloween comfort film.

BreakingGlassFilmsLogoHAYRIDE TO HELL

Hayride to Hell poster

As someone who has participated in an annual haunted hayride as both a viewer and a performer, Dan Lantz‘s HAYRIDE TO HELL opens in the perfect, immersive fashion. The plot begins as a classic story of a beloved farmer on the verge of bankruptcy and the curmudgeonly and corrupt small-town authority figures who want to take him down. Farmer Sam makes them a bet; if he can scare them on his new and improved hayride, they leave him in peace. 

Hayride to Hell (2022) - Bill MoselyThe cast delivers solid Hallmark energy, and that is a total compliment. The dialogue is laugh-out-loud hilarious the entire run. The script solidly shifts into the horror realm halfway through, and you easily root for our band of heroes turned vengeful villains.

A special shout-out to Peter Patrikios for his pristine character work. Kane Hodder plays villainous Sheriff Jubel like a pro. You 110% want to punch him in his racist, power-hungry face. Graham Wolfe does a fantastic job as Deputy Nixler, a dopey MF you’ll love watching go down. 

Hayride to Hell (2022) Kane HodderBill Moseley gives Sam an equal parts sweet and sarcastic edge. The more agitated he becomes, the funnier he gets. Moseley is a legend, and he must be protected at all costs. 

The film also continues the trope of casting full-grown men as teenagers, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The graphic novel transition swipe is reminiscent of Tales From The Crypt goodness. A quick reference to Stephen King‘s Christine is a fun Easter Egg. The hayride ingenuity makes my Halloween heart so happy. It’s probably the best I’ve ever seen.

Hayride to Hell (2022) - www.imdb.comHAYRIDE TO HELL is homegrown horror at its finest. Featuring some of the genre’s greats doing what they do best, fans cannot help but be enchanted by the Halloween fun and clever kills. It’s a beautiful marriage of everything that makes the season fun. HAYRIDE TO HELL is the perfect film to watch on a chilly Autumn afternoon with some homemade cider and popcorn in hand.


Official Trailer: https://youtu.be/KX3I4AfqOvE



Breaking Glass Pictures is proud to announce the upcoming digital release of HAYRIDE TO HELL starring KANE HODDER and BILL MOSELEY

Official Synopsis

Set on the Coxe Family Farm in rural Willis County, Farmer Sam (Bill Moseley) exacts his bloody revenge on unscrupulous local town-folk, including Sheriff Jubel (Kane Hodder) , who menace him and attempt to steal the farm that has been in his family for 200 years.


Director: Dan Lantz
Writer: Kristina Chadwick, Robert Lange


Cast: Graham Wolfe, Mario Mosley, Allyson Malandra, Denise Parella McDonald, Jared Michael Delaney, Shelby Hightower, Melanie Martyn, Brooke Stacy Mills, Aaron Dalla Villa, and Cedric “Budge” Casimiro

ABOUT BREAKING GLASS PICTURES

Founded in 2009, Breaking Glass Pictures is a film distribution and media company that focuses on releasing unique and visionary independent films, inclusive of all genres, from around the world. In addition to theatrical, DVD, digital, and Video-on-Demand releases in North America, Breaking Glass functions as an international sales agent in all film markets, as well as a production company dedicated to creating compelling independent cinema. Breaking Glass also facilitates festival, theatrical, and special event bookings, and offers a full-service marketing team (marketing strategy, artwork and trailer creation, PR, social media) to independent filmmakers.

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‘WINNER’ (2024) A sharp biopic of America’s rebel sweetheart.

vertical films logoWINNER

Winner poster

Filmmaker Susanna Fogel (CAT PERSON) tells the true story of NSA contractor Reality Winner discovering the classified document that Russia interfered with in the 2016 election and then leaked it to the press. WINNER is a black comedy biopic in a league of its own. The whistleblower story we’ve been waiting for.

The military exploited Reality’s extraordinary language abilities, critical thinking skills, and sheer humanity for more violent means. The argument about whether the end justifies the means remains open-ended. It depends on your overall opinion of the military-industrial complex. The guilt from her job translates to excessive workouts and do-gooder activities that no one else wants. Truthfully, Reality was thinking about the country when she broke protocol and then punished by the one person it affected most. It’s pretty gross, if not entirely expected.

Winner-Day15-031Zach Galifianakis is Reality’s activist-minded father, Ron. He plays a proud papa with a brilliant mind and passion for justice. The apple did not fall far. Galifianakis brings the sass in all the right ways. Connie Britton is Mom Billie Winner-Davis, someone I greatly admire. I followed her on social media once the story broke, urging others to retweet and signing petitions for the Biden administration to pardon Reality. Britton delivers a pitch-perfect performance as a Texas mother with the typical priorities before Reality’s arrest.

Emilia Jones expertly shows us what a phenom Reality is, doing justice to her activist heart and take-no-shit attitude. Jones nails each beat with heart and humor. Making grown men cry in her breakout role in CODA, she once again owns the screen.

WINNER_Vertical (1)It’s an entire hour before we even touch on the infamous Russia document. The front end of the film gives us foundational reasons to root for Winner. Fogel skillfully injects humor into a story that appears authentically absurd from any sane outsider’s perspective. Jones’ narration sets the tone for the entire film. If you know Reality’s story, you understand what an indisputable hero she is. How this story got buried as quickly as it did will never cease to baffle me.
WINNER is wildly entertaining.

WINNER Trailer:

In Select Theaters and On Demand September 13, 2024

 

DIRECTED BY:  Susanna Fogel

WRITTEN BY:  Kerry Howley and Susanna Fogel

STARRING:  Emilia Jones, Connie Britton, Danny Ramirez, Kathryn Newton, and Zach Galifianakis

RUN TIME:  103 minutes

RATING:  Not Rated

GENRE:  Comedy, Biography

SYNOPSIS:  Based on a true story, Reality Winner (Emilia Jones) is a brilliant young misfit from a Texas border town who loves her pink gun almost as much as helping others. After teaching herself Arabic in high school so she can be of service in the Middle East, Reality is recruited by the Air Force but quickly becomes disillusioned when she finds her morals challenged. After transitioning to a money gig as an NSA contractor, Reality stumbles upon government secrets regarding Russia’s election hacking during the 2016 Presidential campaign. Does she expose the truth or keep quiet? Ultimately, she decides to leak the truth leading to her trial and historic sentencing for espionage. The film also stars Connie Britton, Danny Ramirez, Kathryn Newton, and Zach Galifianakis.

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‘BACKCOUNTRY’ (2015) will scare the shit out of you. Don’t plan on camping ever again. Liz chats with writer-director Adam MacDonald.

BACKCOUNTRYBackcountry poster

In Connecticut, where I grew up, we bungee cord our trash cans closed. In truth, it does not do a damn thing when Black Bears come into the yard and rip those suckers open like they’re peeling back foil on a yogurt cup. I once had a very close encounter when I almost hit a baby bear while pulling into the driveway. And we all know what baby bears mean, right? Mama is not far behind. Although I now live in Manhattan, I have not fully left behind the days of hiking and camping in a tent. None of this fancy RV business for my family. We had a tent, built legit fires, and funded the new wing of the L.L. Bean flagship store as any respectable New Englander should. By no means do I consider myself any sort of expert on the outdoors, but damnit, I was a campfire girl. I earned badges. Watching Adam MacDonald‘s new film BACKCOUNTRY kinda ruined all those blissful memories for me. To be clear, I mean that in the best way possible. Backcountry Missy StillJenn and Alex take a few days off from their city life to go hiking in a state park where Alex had spent time as a youngster. Insistent that he knows where they are heading sans map, Jenn musters up the confidence to trust her boyfriend’s experience, although she’s no dummy. Jenn is armed with bear spray and a flare, just for comfort. Along the way, they encounter an odd fellow named Brad. Brad is a backcountry tour guide who instantly challenges Alex’s manhood. It’s not long before the audience senses the dread on Alex’s face. We know as soon as he does, they are lost. In the middle of the woods, no map, no other people anywhere is screaming distance, can these two survive long enough to make it back to civilization? Certain doom.

unnamedMissy Peregrym is a force as Jenn. Her vulnerability is only matched by her wit and strength, as she claws her way through this nightmare. Jeff Roop plays Alex.  He’s a well-meaning guy, if not a tad emasculated via circumstance. You completely buy that these two are a couple. Their chemistry is palpable and wholeheartedly relatable. You feel for them as you fear for them. Eric Balfour plays creepy man, Brad. He is great in every role. There is something just off enough about his demeanor to keep you on your toes. Balfour is that guy you never want to meet in this scenario. The uncomfortable factor hits a high note once he steps onto the screen. Massive high five to Adam MacDonald for injecting elements of truth into the script. Even if you aren’t an avid outdoors person, this film will still freak you out. Nature is not something to be trifled with. You need to respect it. you’re in its house out there. BackcountryJeffStillThe film has a fantastic sense of peril from the get-go. A cute couple, venturing off in the wilderness, unaccompanied, already equals “bad shit is most definitely going down”, all attributed to MacDonald‘s brilliant sense of realism. The sound editing is exquisite and the handheld camera work makes you feel like you’re right with Jenn and Alex, even if you wish you weren’t. With a 15-day shooting schedule, the quality of practical effects in Backcountry is huge. These guys should teach a masterclass based solely on one scene in the film. Combined with the genius use of soft focus probably saves the audience from actually vomiting while watching. (Again, a total compliment.) BackcountryBradStill

I got to have an awesome conversation with Adam. I’m pretty sure we’re friends now in some weird, fellow camper, bear scare induced, land. The following is our chat. We delve into some pretty spoilery questions about the film, talk about the subway, women in film, and pretty much everything in between. And, don’t worry, that moment of silence in there is when Adam was pulling up a picture that Missy sent him on his phone, so hang in there. It continues to be pretty great.

BackcountryBlackBear

BACKCOUNTRY will be available in theaters and on VOD on Friday, March 20th.

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‘DETAINED’ (2024) Abbie Cornish stars in a satisfying thriller.

kinogo quiver logoDETAINED

DETAINED poster

SYNOPSIS

In the dead of night, Rebecca (Cornish) wakes in a decrepit precinct, accused of a hit-and-run. But a deadly scuffle reveals a sinister plot. With nowhere to turn, she must uncover the truth before it consumes her. But Rebecca harbors secrets darker than they know.

Abbie Cornish in a scene from DETAINED - Photo Courtesy - Quiver Distribution

The long con is on in this creative bait-and-switch thriller. Filmmaker Felipe Mucci, alongside co-writer Jeremy Palmer, lures us into a mystery that cleverly unravels.

DETAINED boasts a solid ensemble cast. Breeda Wool elevated each film she’s in, and this is no exception. Her effortless vulnerability captivates. Justin H. Min‘s performance is also a standout. I loved him in Shortcomings and The Umbrella Academy. The role of Isaac is yet another display of his talents.

Laz Alonso in a scene from DETAINED - Photo Courtesy - Quiver DistributionLaz Alonzo does a fine job as the hypermasculine group leader, doing his best to keep up with Cornish. Speaking of, Abbie Cornish owns this role. It’s a tour de force. From the moment we see her, it’s already over.

(L-R) Abbie Cornish and Breeda Wool in a scene from DETAINED - Photo Courtesy - Quiver DistributionMucci and Palmer give Cornish the time to work her magic. We know her gears are turning throughout. Watching the dominoes fall is delightful. While I worked out a key plot point relatively early- I watch hundreds of films each year, it never lessened the elaborate twists. I still wondered precisely how we’d get from point A to B. Audiences get a lot to chew on in just over ninety minutes. DETAINED is devilishly satisfying.

VIEW THE TRAILER HERE

Quiver Distribution’s upcoming psychological thriller DETAINED starring Abbie Cornish, Laz Alonso, Moon Bloodgood, John Patrick Amedori, Justin H. Min, and Breeda Wool will open in select theaters and be available on VOD this Friday, August 2nd.

Directed by FELIPE MUCCI

Written by JEREMY PALMER and FELIPE MUCCI

Produced by RYAN SCARINGE

Executive Producers MONICA SUFAR, ABBIE CORNISH, and LAZ ALONSO

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‘DOCTOR JEKYLL’ (2024) Eddie Izzard continues to be iconic


DOCTOR JEKYLL

STARRING EDDIE IZZARD

Doctor Jekyll poster
An adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson novella, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, director Joe Stephenson takes us inside the gothic horror genre through the performance of the incomparable Eddie Izzard.

In DOCTOR JEKYLL, a young man recently released from prison, needing employment to see his daughter, finds himself the carer for a famous pharmaceutical giant forced into seclusion due to scandal. There is something amiss with the doctor, and Rob is merely a chess piece.

doctor Jekyll 2The script plays like one carefully curated test after another, skillfully crafted to test Rob’s and our moral compass. screenwriter Dan Kelly-MulhernIt has Nina lull Rob into a sense of safety and care, playing on his desperation and redemption arc. The double-entendre dialogue is delicious.

Scott Chambers captivates with an anxious, naive, childlike quality reminiscent of Barry Keoghan in Saltburn. He compels you to watch. His chemistry with Izzard is electric.

doctor Jekyll Scott chambersEddie Izzard owns the titular role of Nina Jekyll. Delivering two fully fleshed-out personalities, one can only imagine the personal stake in Izzard’s performance. She is utterly mesmerizing, devouring Kelly-MulhernIt’s versions of Nina and Rachel. It is one hell of a turn.

Birgit Dierken‘s cinematography features sweeping crane shots and beautiful framing, utilizing brilliant natural and fire light. The score mirrors the story in style. Devilishly sinister and other times lovely, the duality is perfect.

Doctor-Jekyll_Still_4DOCTOR JEKYLL is endlessly intriguing, playing on the raw emotions and hitting every horror note, with precision. The finale is visually spectacular. DOCTOR JEKYLL is a prime example of keen manipulation.

OPENING IN THEATERS AND VOD AUGUST 2ND

Hammer Films invites you to screen DOCTOR JEKYLL, a new adaptation of the classic tale from Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella starring Eddie Izzard. Directed by Joe Stephenson (MIDAS MAN), DOCTOR JEKYLL is a slow-burn gothic horror that delves into themes of duality, concocting a surprising mix of dark humor and flashes of camp within a twisted fairytale. The film also stars Scott Chambers, Simon Callow, Lindsay Duncan, Jonathan Hyde, Morgan Watkins and Robyn Cara. DOCTOR JEKYLL will open in theaters and on demand beginning August 2, 2024.

Doctor Jekyll Eddie IzzardDIRECTOR Joe Stephenson 

WRITERS Dan Kelly-Mulhern, Robert Louis Stevenson 

CAST Eddie Izzard, Scott Chambers, Lindsay Duncan, Simon Callow, Jonathan Hyde, Morgan Watkins, Robyn Cara, Isabella Inchbald, Tony Jayawardena 

GENRE Gothic Horror, Drama, Mystery   

RUN TIME 90 mins 

 

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