Indie Film Weekly [EP 8]: Parthenope (2025) & Kicking and Screaming (1995)
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 have to 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 or rent, celebrating the timelessness of independent cinema.
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New in Theaters
Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!
First up is Armand, directed by Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, dives into the chaos that erupts when Elisabeth is summoned to a parent-teacher conference. What begins as a routine meeting escalates into a tangled web of accusations and shifting alliances between parents and faculty. Interestingly, much of the dialogue was inspired by real-life accounts from educators, adding authenticity to the tense exchanges. With its razor-sharp script and tense atmosphere, Armand is a gripping exploration of moral ambiguity and interpersonal conflict.
Next, we have Parthenope, directed by Paolo Sorrentino, captures the beauty and complexity of youth through the eyes of a woman reflecting on her summers in Naples. From love affairs to moments of self-discovery, the film’s lush cinematography and vibrant characters immerse viewers in a rich tapestry of emotions. The film features several local non-professional actors, which adds an authentic charm to its depiction of Naples. It’s a heartfelt celebration of a city and its people, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven storytelling.
Finally, there’s Dark Nuns, directed by Hyeok-jae Kwon, follows two nuns and two priests as they try to save a young boy possessed by an evil spirit. Combining psychological tension with visceral scares, the film explores themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between good and evil. The production utilized innovative special effects to depict the possession scenes, creating a visually haunting experience. If you’re a fan of exorcism stories with a fresh cultural perspective, Dark Nuns delivers in spades.
So, look for these films in a theater near you: Armand, Parthenope, and Dark Nuns.
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, Good Bad Things, directed by Shane D. Stanger, is a poignant romantic drama about an entrepreneur with a physical disability who reluctantly tries a dating app. What follows is a profound journey of love and self-discovery that challenges societal expectations. The film’s lead actor, who has a similar lived experience, worked closely with the director to ensure an authentic portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of navigating relationships. Premiering at Slamdance 2024, this film’s authentic performances and heartfelt narrative make it an emotional standout.
Next, Movie Theatre Massacre, directed by Ian Courtney, is a slasher comedy that follows a group of employees working their final week at a failing movie theater. Shot entirely on an iPhone, this quirky horror flick blends over-the-top gore with dark humor, creating a unique and entertaining take on the genre. The director staged the film in an actual decommissioned theater, adding a nostalgic atmosphere to the story. With its campy charm and indie spirit, this one’s a must-see for fans of offbeat horror.
Finally, Flow, directed by Gints Zilbalodis, is a visually stunning animated film about a solitary cat forced to join other animals on a boat after a catastrophic flood. As the animals navigate their differences, the film’s heartfelt message about unity and resilience shines through. Remarkably, the entire film was created by Zilbalodis as a solo effort, showcasing his extraordinary talent in animation and storytelling. Featuring breathtaking animation and an evocative score, Flow is a treat for audiences of all ages.
To recap, check out Good Bad Things, Movie Theatre Massacre, and Flow on your preferred rental or download platform.
Indie Classic
And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re celebrating the 30th anniversary of Kicking and Screaming, directed by Noah Baumbach. Released in 1995, this dramedy follows four college graduates as they navigate post-college life, avoiding real-world responsibilities and clinging to the safety of their past. With Baumbach’s sharp dialogue and a cast of relatable characters, Kicking and Screaming remains a hilarious and poignant look at the anxieties of growing up. You can stream it now on Netflix, so don’t miss the chance to revisit this indie gem.
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!