Indie Film Weekly [EP 6]: Presence (2025) & Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Hey there! Welcome to Indie Film Weekly, your insider guide to new independent film releases. I’m Glen Reynolds of Circus Road Films, where we specialize in helping indie filmmakers get their stories to film festivals and indie film distributors.
Each week on this podcast, we spotlight new indie films hitting theaters. For these films, I suggest searching for them on Fandango or Google to see if they are showing in your city. And if you must travel a bit, please do. It's important to support indie films by getting to the theater.
In addition, we highlight recent standout indie films that you can rent or download on platforms like Amazon, AppleTV, YouTube Movies, and Fandango at Home. Supporting indie films on these platforms is crucial, as not every indie film gets a Netflix deal.
Finally, we focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, or other subscription platforms.
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New in Theaters
Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!
First up, there’s Presence, directed by Steven Soderbergh. It’s a supernatural horror film starring Lucy Liu, Julia Fox, and Chris Sullivan. The story follows a family that moves into a suburban house and becomes convinced they're not alone. Notably, the film is shot entirely from the perspective of the ghost, offering a unique and immersive viewing experience. Soderbergh also experimented with AI-generated soundscapes to enhance the eerie atmosphere, creating an auditory experience that keeps audiences on edge. Presence premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.
Also in theatres, we have Three Birthdays, directed by Jane Weinstock. It’s set in 1970, during the height of the sexual revolution. The film follows an idealistic academic couple and their 17-year-old daughter as they grapple with evolving ideas around sex, race, and class. The narrative unfolds over three consecutive birthdays, highlighting the family's internal dynamics and societal pressures. Starring Josh Radnor and Annie Parisse, the film delves into the complexities of open relationships and generational conflicts. Notably, Three Birthdays won an award for Excellence in Directing at the 2023 Woodstock Film Festival.
Finally, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, directed by Bruce David Klein, is a vibrant biopic of the legendary Liza Minnelli. This film goes beyond the glitz and glamour of Ms Minelli to showcase her triumphs and struggles. It features a mesmerizing lead performance and show-stopping musical numbers. It’s an absolute must-see for fans of the stage and screen icon. The production team worked closely with Minnelli herself, ensuring authenticity in every frame.
So, look for these films in a theater near you: Presence, Three Birthdays, and Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story.
Films to Rent or Download
Looking for something to rent or download this week? Here are some standout options you can find on Amazon, AppleTV, or YouTube Movies:
First, Inshallah a Boy, directed by Amjad Al Rasheed, is a powerful Jordanian drama that tells the story of a recently widowed woman. She must pretend to be pregnant to protect herself and her daughter from Jordan's patriarchal inheritance laws, which would permit her husband's family to take everything he owned. The film’s nuanced performances and emotionally resonant narrative offer a rare glimpse into the lives of women in contemporary Jordan. It tackles systemic challenges with raw honesty and cultural authenticity. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it was lauded for its bold storytelling.
Next, Driving Madeleine, directed by Christian Carion, is a heartwarming French road movie that follows the journey of an elderly woman and her cab driver as they navigate the streets of Paris and share life-changing conversations. The film’s touching performances and gentle humor make it a delightful watch. It’s worth noting that much of the dialogue was improvised, adding to its authentic charm. The filmmakers also shot key scenes in some of Paris’s less touristy districts, showcasing a side of the city rarely seen on film.
Finally, Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest, directed by Nancy Svendsen, is a gripping documentary about Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to summit Mount Everest. The film chronicles her incredible journey, highlighting the cultural barriers she faced and her lasting impact on the mountaineering world. It features breathtaking archival footage, and is both inspiring and visually stunning. Interviews with her family and fellow climbers offer a deeply personal perspective on her trailblazing legacy.
To recap, check out Inshallah a Boy, Driving Madeleine, and Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest on your preferred rental or download platform.
Indie Classic on TVOD
And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re highlighting The Rocky Horror Picture Show, directed by Jim Sharman. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, this cult classic remains a staple of midnight movie screenings around the world. With its unforgettable songs, eccentric characters, and campy charm, it’s a joyous celebration of individuality and rebellion. I remember seeing this for the first time during a late-night screening in Austin, Texas, and the energy in the theater was crazy. While it may not currently be streaming on subscription platforms, you can rent or download it on Amazon, AppleTV, and other TVOD services. If you haven’t experienced Rocky Horror, now’s the time to give yourself over to absolute pleasure.
And that’s a wrap for this episode of Indie Film Weekly! Thanks for spending some time with me as we explore the world of independent cinema. You can also read about these films in our weekly email newsletter, which you can sign up for at theindieigniter.com.
If a film we discussed caught your interest, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it’s a great way to support the indie film community. Until next week, keep watching, keep supporting indie film, and I’ll see you back here soon!