Monolith SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘Monolith’ Embraces Minimalistic Sci-Fi

The world of podcasting quickly found its way onto film. Many of these stories look to expand the world, setting up intriguing mysteries and crimes to follow. Yet the idea of following a person as they record their podcast does not feel inherently cinematic. Director Matt Vesely takes the challenge head-on. With a screenplay by … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Monolith’ Embraces Minimalistic Sci-Fi

I Used to Be Funny

SXSW 2023: ‘I Used to Be Funny’ – A Rachel Sennott Dramatic Vehicle

There were not many stars minted at SXSW in the last few years. However, after the release of Shiva Baby, Bodies Bodies Bodies and Bottoms, it's clear that Rachel Sennott pulled it off. The actress showed range over the three films, highlighting her comedic timing and dramatic skillset. Yet I Used to Be Funny serves … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘I Used to Be Funny’ – A Rachel Sennott Dramatic Vehicle

Beef 2023 Netflix Season 1 A24 Ali Wong Steven Yeun

SXSW 2023: A24’s ‘Beef’ Springs to Life with Wong and Yeun’s Darkly Comic Performances

As television continues to bring in movie stars to headline their projects, stars get the chance to play out of type. This allows performers to flex their acting muscles and often tell stories that audiences may not associate with them. Netflix hopes that Beef, the new series from Lee Sung Jin, draws you in with … Continue reading SXSW 2023: A24’s ‘Beef’ Springs to Life with Wong and Yeun’s Darkly Comic Performances

If You Were the Last SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘If You Were the Last’ – A Lovely Lo-Fi Sci-Fi Romance

In a post-Covid world, the concept of isolation is all too real. However, even in the most dire circumstances, we reach out for connection from those around us. If You Were the Last takes this idea a bit further. Director Kristian Mercado delivers one of the year's cutest and most unique visual spectacles. His lo-fi … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘If You Were the Last’ – A Lovely Lo-Fi Sci-Fi Romance

The Herricanes SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘The Herricanes’ is a Triumphant Sport Documentary

Bringing a sports story to life, especially those focused on women, has rarely been easy. Sadly, most women's sports never feature the record keeping of men's sports. In the case of The Herricanes, the process seemed even more difficult than normal. Yet director Olivia Kuan connected with the material more than the regular documentarian. For … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘The Herricanes’ is a Triumphant Sport Documentary

Raging Grace SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘Raging Grace’ Tells an Immigrant Story In a Haunted House

The immigrant and low SES horror film continues to gain traction in recent years. In the past few years, Nanny and His House were among the best films of the year, and struck to the heart of anxiety of moving to a new world. Director Paris Zarcilla shows a ton of potential with Raging Grace. … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Raging Grace’ Tells an Immigrant Story In a Haunted House

Problemista SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘Problemista’ – Hilarious and Heartfelt Film About Life in the Arts

Julio Torres already proved to Hollywood he possesses a unique voice. He consistently showed off his vision and clever insights as writer on SNL and co-creator of Los Espookys. Now, A24 provided Torres an opportunity to direct his first feature. Problemista instantly connects, becoming one of the most confident debuts of the year. The very … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Problemista’ – Hilarious and Heartfelt Film About Life in the Arts

Appendage SXSW 2023

SXSW 2023: ‘Appendage’ Literalizes the Monster Inside Us All

Those who struggle with negative self-talk know that it's difficult to overcome. Simply saying nice things about oneself can help. Yet, even that process feels impossible if you are inclined to beat yourself up. Writer/Director Anna Zlokovic brings this struggle into the real world. In Appendage, a young woman is forced to confront the monster … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Appendage’ Literalizes the Monster Inside Us All

Riders on the Storm SXSW 2023 Red Bull Studios

SXSW 2023: ‘Riders on the Storm’ Delivers a Harrowing Look at the Fall of Kabul

For decades, athletics have been used to signal a belief in national pride. The Olympics, World Cup, and World Baseball Classic allow athletes to become international celebrities. For Kalakov Mulakhil and Khaiber Azbarzada, the stakes are far higher. The nephews of a famed athlete who was executed in Afgahnistan's Civil War, they hope to bring … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Riders on the Storm’ Delivers a Harrowing Look at the Fall of Kabul

Swarm SXSW 2023 Prime Video

SXSW 2023: ‘Swarm’ Thrills with Bloody Extravagance and Explicit Sexuality

The anti-hero has long found a place on television. From Walter White to Tony Soprano, series focusing on men misbehaving have long found success. Unfortunately, for women, this approach has been poignantly less effective. Yet, in the last five years, some of these swings have brought a more experimental and funny approach to television. Created … Continue reading SXSW 2023: ‘Swarm’ Thrills with Bloody Extravagance and Explicit Sexuality