In a few days, the 29th edition of the Fantasia International Film Festival will commence, lasting from July 16 to August 4. This event will feature some exciting new movies making their world premiere. Previously praised by Academy Award winner Quentin Tarantino as “the most significant and distinguished genre film festival on this continent,” Fantasia showcases a diverse array of films from around the globe. Among this year’s selections are Ari Aster’s latest work, Eddington; Flush, a French thriller centered around a man trapped in a bathroom; and Stinker, a humorous sci-fi film from Kazakhstan about an alien concealed within a family outhouse. While not all films may focus on bathrooms, the selection for this year’s Fantasia is truly exceptional.
Just as before, egmr.ru is set to participate in this year’s event and will deliver reviews and responses to numerous groundbreaking films from the festival, some even having their first appearance. Here’s a list of ten films from the extensive Fantasia lineup that we can’t wait to explore!
1) $Positions
In a darkly comic turn of events, the hapless resident named Mike, burdened by debts and feeling defeated, resorts to cryptocurrency as a lifeline. However, his situation only spirals into a series of regrettable choices in this tale that explores themes of addiction and family ties.
In the opinion of RogerEbert.com, $POSITIONS resembles a film by the Safdie Brothers and shares elements with comedies such as Bridesmaids. It appears to be an enduring story about greed that unfolds amidst the distinctive challenges of the 2020s.
Director: Brandon Daley
Cast: Kaylyn Carter, Trevor Dawkins, Vinny Kress, and Michael Kunick
2) Blazing Fists
As a passionate admirer, I’d say: “Two rebellious teenagers strive for a brighter future, and boxing becomes their pathway. This compelling tale of growing up beautifully contrasts the pain of bumps and bruises with the warmth of hope.
Renowned director Takashi Miike, with two films gracing this year’s Fantastia, is set to translate MMA fighter Mikuru Asakura’s autobiography onto the big screen. In an unusual move for Miike, Asakura himself will take on the lead role in the film.
Movie Director: Takashi Miike
Main Actors: Danhi Kinoshita, Kaname Yoshizawa, Susumu Terajima, Gackt, and Anna Tsuchiya.
3) Buffet Infinity
As I was idly flipping through channels, a chilling narrative unfolded before my eyes – the suspenseful saga of a restaurant’s power grab in an Alberta town, subtly woven into the fabric of TV commercials.
Buffet Infinity originally started as a brief 30-second YouTube video, eventually expanding into a full-length movie, similar to shows like SCTV and Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job. The fact that it’s unknown exactly what it will be is what makes it intriguing right from the start.
Director: Simon Glassman
Cast: Kevin Singh, Claire Theobald, and Donovan Workun
4) Every Heavy Thing
In the context of Oklahoma, where women are mysteriously disappearing, a regular office employee experiences a dramatic shift in his ordinary life following an unwanted observation in a bizarre and unsettling dark comedy by Mickey Reece.
Three years after the amusing “Country Gold,” indie favorite Mickey Reece is back with another comedy movie, boasting an even larger cast of faces that viewers might recognize from his films. This time, however, Reece ventures into thriller terrain, making it a compelling choice for viewing.
As a devotee of cinematic arts, I am Mickey Reece, the director of this captivating production. My extraordinary cast comprises Barbara Crampton, Vera Drew, John Ennis, Josh Fadem, Tipper Newton, and James Urbaniak – each bringing their unique talents to the table, creating a symphony of acting prowess on screen.
5) I Fell in Love with a Z-Grade Director in Brooklyn
On a particularly challenging day in New York City, where screen actress Shina found herself without a wallet, phone, or proficiency in English, things seemed to be hitting rock bottom. However, fate took a surprising turn when she encountered enthusiastic independent movie maker, Jack.
As a movie aficionado, I must admit that romantic comedies aren’t typically my go-to genre. However, Fell in Love with a Z-Grade Director in Brooklyn seems to wear its love for filmmaking right on its sleeve, making it an intriguing exception. With Larry Fessenden and Lloyd Kaufman at the helm, this film appears destined to become a favorite among Letterboxd users.
Director: Kenichi Ugana
Cast: Estevan Muñoz, Katsunari Nakagawa, and Ui MIhara
6) Influencers
Once more, CW is up to something sneaky. Like a chameleon adapting and a spider spinning intricate traps, she seems ready to embrace unexpected turns and catastrophic mistakes in paradise.
2022’s Shudder success, “Influencers,” will bring back Cassandra Naud as the mysterious and sly character CW. This time, genre veteran Georgina Campbell will be joining the adventure, known for her role as a modern final girl from Barbarian and Lovely, Dark, and Deep. She adds to an already impressive ensemble cast.
Lead Role: Kurtis David Harder (Director)
Main Actors: Georgina Campbell, Lisa Delamar, Cassandra Naud, Emily Tennant, and Jonathan Whitesell (Cast Members)
7) Lurker
When a store employee meets an up-and-coming celebrity, they seize the chance to get closer to the popular circle. However, as the distinction between pal and admirer fades, having connections and being near them becomes a question of survival and existence.
As a movie reviewer, here’s my take on “Courtside,” Alex Russell’s electrifying directorial and writing debut:
In “Courtside,” Russell takes us on a thrilling journey into the dark world of fame and its consequences, drawing upon his experiences from hit series like “The Bear” and “Beef.” This gripping tale exposes the seedy underbelly of individuals who live in the limelight, offering a fresh perspective that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
In essence, “Courtside” is a must-see for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush and a glimpse into the often hidden aspects of stardom. The narrative is well-crafted, the characters are intriguing, and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend adding “Courtside” to your must-watch list.
Director: Alex Russell
Cast: Archie Madekwe and Théodore Pellerin
8) OBEX
In a magical twist, Conor finds himself stepping into the vibrant realm of OBEX, a video game world. Here, his mission is to save his beloved pet who has been abducted, while also confronting the emotional turmoil hidden within him.
After winning us over with Strawberry Mansion back in 2021, Albert Birney is back with a film that appears to diverge dramatically from the genre of comedy. With its appeal to fans of Dungeons & Dragons, Adventure Time, and Eraserhead, OBEX seems poised to become a lo-fi cult classic.
Director: Albert Birney
Starring: Albert Birney, Callie Hernandez, and Frank Mosley
9) The School Duel
In a future ‘Free State of Florida,’ where gun ownership is unrestricted and school shootings have reached record levels, a troubled 13-year-old joins a lethal, government-backed contest.
In this gripping drama, although the story delves into intense topics, it’s expected to catch audiences off guard, particularly because an iconic cast member from “The Office” is portrayed as a villain in the series.
Director: Todd Wiseman Jr
Cast: Kue LawrenceChristina BrucatoOscar Nuñez
10) The Well
In the not-too-distant time, essential resources are depleted, leaving a family struggling against scarcity of water, competing factions, and a lethal disease.
The Well appears to be a genre piece that employs a limited setting to narrate a personal, heartfelt tale, set against the expansive backdrop of a distressing, post-apocalyptic era.
A Heartwarming Tapestry Woven by Master Storyteller Hubert Davis
In the realm of cinematic storytelling, I’ve encountered many a tale spun with grace and finesse. But none have quite captured my heart as profoundly as the masterful work of director Hubert Davis. In his latest masterpiece, we are introduced to an ensemble cast that brings life to characters as vibrant and nuanced as the threads in a beautiful tapestry.
The story unfolds around Joanne Boland’s resilient character, who shines with a luminosity that illuminates every frame she graces. Noah Lamanna delivers a performance that resonates with authenticity, while Sheila McCarthy and Steven McCarthy bring depth and dimension to their roles as the matriarch and patriarch of this compelling narrative. Lastly, Shailyn Pierre-Dixon’s portrayal leaves an indelible mark on the heart, serving as a beacon of hope amidst the tapestry of human emotion.
Hubert Davis has once again demonstrated his unparalleled ability to weave a tale that resonates deeply with audiences. His storytelling prowess is evident in every scene, every line, and every subtle nuance that brings this captivating world to life on the silver screen. This film is not just a movie; it’s an experience that will leave you feeling moved, inspired, and forever changed. If you seek a cinematic journey that transcends the ordinary, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the enchanting tapestry woven by Hubert Davis.
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2025-07-14 04:11