Glen Reynolds 1/29/25 Glen Reynolds 1/29/25

Indie Film Weekly [EP 7]: Marcello Mio (2025) & The Trip To Bountiful (1985)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

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.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Indie Igniter, your go-to resource for marketing your independent film and reaching your audience. Check them out at theindieigniter.com and subscribe to their newsletter.

New in Theaters

Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!

First up, we have Marcello Mio, Directed by Christophe Honoré. It's a French-Italian comedy featuring Chiara ma-strow-yaa-nee, the real-life daughter of Marcello ma-strow-yaa-nee and Catherine Deneuve. During a tumultuous summer, Chiara adopts her late father's persona, dressing and behaving like him, leading those around her to call her "Marcello." The film delves into themes of identity and legacy, with notable cameos from some major French cinema icons.

Also in theaters, there’s Clone Cops, directed by Danny Dones. It is a wild sci-fi comedy. The story follows a gang of outlaws defending their hideout, only to uncover a shocking secret about who they are and what they’re up against. As the Clone Cops close in, it’s a race against time for the outlaws to escape their doom. Adding to the film’s tongue-in-cheek humor is its public service announcement-style campaign surrounding “Clonemydia,” a fictional health condition linked to unprotected contact with clones. This one is as sharp and irreverent as it is entertaining.

Finally, Love Me, written and directed by Sam and Andy Zuchero. It is a cosmic love story. The film stars Kristen Stewart as a buoy in the ocean and Steven Yeun as a satellite up in space, who develop a romantic connection long after humanity's extinction. The film has mixed reviews from critics but I would give it a chance. It did premiered at Sundance, and it won the Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize for its exploration of science and technology themes.

So, look for these films in a theater near you: Marcello Mio, Clone Cops, and Love Me.

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, Fremont, directed by Babak Jalali. It’s a poignant dramedy that follows a young Afghan immigrant working at a fortune cookie factory in Fremont, California. As she navigates her new life in America, she grapples with feelings of isolation and longing for home. The film’s quiet humor and introspective tone create a deeply resonant experience. Fremont also premiered at Sundance, where it was celebrated for its unique storytelling and authentic performances.

Next on VOD, The Elephant 6 Recording Co., directed by C.B. Stockfleth, is a captivating documentary about the groundbreaking musical collective that gave rise to bands like Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, and of Montreal. With rare footage and insightful interviews, the film provides a nostalgic yet inspiring look at one of indie music’s most influential movements. It’s a must for music lovers and anyone interested in the creative process.

Finally, Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose, directed by Adam Sigal. It’s a whimsical mystery-comedy based on true events. Simon Pegg stars as a paranormal investigator who travels to the Isle of Man to investigate claims of a talking mongoose. The film’s quirky humor and eccentric premise make it a delightfully offbeat watch. If you’re a fan of oddball comedies with a touch of the supernatural, this one’s for you.

To recap, check out Fremont, The Elephant 6 Recording Co., and Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose on your preferred rental or download platform.

Indie Classic

And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re spotlighting The Trip to Bountiful, directed by Peter Masterson and adapted from Horton Foote's 1953 play of the same name., which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Released in 1985, this beautifully crafted drama stars Geraldine Page in her Oscar-winning performance as Carrie Watts, an elderly woman determined to return to her hometown one last time. The film’s poignant exploration of memory, loss, and resilience has made it a timeless classic. It was filmed in Waxahachie, Texas, contributing to the town's reputation as "The Best Little Hollywood in Texas" during the 1980s.If you haven’t seen The Trip to Bountiful, now is the perfect time to rediscover this 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

Glen Reynolds 1/22/25 Glen Reynolds 1/22/25

Indie Film Weekly [EP 6]: Presence (2025) & Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

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.

Finally, we focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, or other subscription platforms.

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.

Glen Reynolds 1/15/25 Glen Reynolds 1/15/25

Indie Film Weekly [EP 5]: Sing Sing (2023) & A Woman Under the Influence (1974)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

Finally, we focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, or other subscription platforms.

New in Theaters

Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!

First up, we have DIG! XX, directed by Ondi Tim-oh-ner. This documentary revisits the iconic rock documentary DIG! - 20 years later, exploring what happened to the rivalries, friendships, and music that defined The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Dandy Warhols. It’s a fascinating deep dive into the lasting impact of the original film and how the music world has evolved since. Fun fact: The filmmakers discovered never-before-seen footage from the original shoot, adding fresh insights into the dynamics between the bands. This sequel offers behind-the-scenes stories that fans of the first DIG! won’t want to miss.

Next, there’s Sing Sing, directed by Greg Kwee-dar. Based on true events, this powerful drama follows a group of incarcerated men who put on a play inside the walls of Sing Sing Correctional Facility. Led by Colman Domingo in a standout performance, the film celebrates creativity, resilience, and redemption. Worth noting - Many of the actors are formerly incarcerated individuals, bringing some serious authenticity to their roles.

Finally, Grand Theft Hamlet, directed by Fiona Dourif, is a modern-day reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic play. Set in the high-stakes world of cryptocurrency, the film uses Hamlet’s timeless themes of betrayal and ambition to comment on contemporary greed and innovation. The filmmakers collaborated with blockchain experts to ensure the cryptocurrency details were as realistic as possible.

So, look for these films in a theater near you: DIG! XX, Sing Sing, and Grand Theft Hamlet.

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, The Gutter directed by Isaiah and Yassir Lester. The story follows Walt a frequently fired bartender who lands a job at AlleyCatz, a rundown bowling alley. There, he discovers an unexpected talent for bowling. Encouraged by his colleague Skunk Walt enters the professional bowling scene, aiming to save AlleyCatz from foreclosure. However, his rapid rise attracts detractors, including retired bowling champion Linda Curson played by Susan Sarandon who seeks to undermine his success. The film premiered at South by Southwest and is a great blend of humor and social commentary. If you are seeking a comedy that combines sports underdog themes with sharp wit, The Gutter offers an entertaining experience.

First up is Elevation, directed by George Nolfi, is an intense survival thriller set on a remote mountain. When a climbing expedition turns perilous, the group faces both the elements and moral dilemmas that test their limits. Nolfi’s direction emphasizes the psychological tension as much as the physical stakes, creating a gripping tale of resilience and human frailty. Filmed in the breathtaking Andes, the film immerses viewers in its stark and stunning environment, adding a layer of realism to this harrowing journey.

Next, The World According to Allee Willis, directed by Alexis Spraic, is a vibrant exploration of the life and legacy of Allee Willis, the creative force behind timeless hits like “September” and “Boogie Wonderland.” Spraic’s documentary captures Willis’s eclectic spirit, her groundbreaking contributions to music, and her impact on popular culture. Featuring intimate interviews and rare footage from Willis’s archives, the film celebrates her unique approach to art and life, offering a heartfelt tribute to an extraordinary talent.

To recap, check out The Gutter, Elevation, and The World According to Allee Willis on your preferred rental or download platform.

Indie Classic on SVOD

And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re highlighting A Woman Under the Influence, directed by John Cassavetes. This groundbreaking film, released over 50 years ago in 1974, stars Gena Rowlands in an unforgettable performance as Mabel, a woman struggling with mental illness and societal expectations. The film’s raw, unfiltered portrayal of marriage, identity, and mental health has cemented it as a masterpiece of American independent cinema. During filming, Rowlands insisted on minimal rehearsal to preserve the raw emotion in every scene, which became a hallmark of her performance. You can stream it on Max and several other platforms.

Glen Reynolds 1/8/25 Glen Reynolds 1/8/25

Indie Film Weekly [EP 4]: A Real Pain (2024) & Muriel’s Wedding (1994)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

Finally, we focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, or other subscription platforms.

New in Theaters

Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!

First up, we have Diane Warren: Relentless, directed by Cindy Meehl. This documentary dives into the life and career of the legendary songwriter, showcasing her tireless work ethic and the passion that fuels her music. Featuring interviews with big names like Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, and Elton John, the film captures both the highs and challenges of a groundbreaking career. Whether you’re a music fan or love stories of creative resilience, this one’s for you. Interestingly, Warren herself was heavily involved in curating the soundtrack, ensuring it reflected her signature style.

Also in theaters, there’s Extremely Unique Dynamic, directed by Kwan Ming. This genre-bending film combines drama, surrealism, and absurd comedy to tell the story of two unlikely friends who run a chaotic karaoke bar on the verge of closure. The film’s quirky energy has already made it a favorite at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award. Much of the movie was improvised, which adds to its unpredictable and hilarious tone.

Finally, Eat the Night, directed by Samira Raza, is a gritty psychological thriller about a night chef in a high-end restaurant who becomes embroiled in a dark conspiracy. With tension simmering both inside and outside the kitchen, the film explores ambition, betrayal, and survival in the high-stakes culinary world. The restaurant scenes were filmed in an actual Michelin-starred kitchen during off-hours, lending authenticity to the intense atmosphere.

So, look for these films in a theater near you: Diane Warren: Relentless, Extremely Unique Dynamic, and Eat the Night.

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, Memoir of a Snail, directed by Karolina Shaw-stak, is a Polish drama following a widowed artist who reconnects with her estranged daughter during a summer at their family’s countryside home. The film won the Golden Bear at last year’s Berlin film Festival and its lyrical storytelling and breathtaking cinematography bring this quiet but deeply emotional story to life. Szostak drew inspiration for the film from her own childhood summers spent in a similar countryside home.

Next, Dahomey, directed by Taye Ade-tokunbo, is a historical epic centered on the Dahomey Amazons, an all-female warrior unit in 19th-century West Africa. The film premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival and explores themes of loyalty, identity, and power, blending stunning battle sequences with deeply human stories. Worth noting - the cast underwent rigorous training with historians and martial arts experts to accurately portray the warriors’ fighting techniques.

Finally, A Real Pain, directed by Jesse Eisenberg, is a dark comedy about two cousins traveling to Poland to explore their shared Jewish heritage. It premiered to great acclaim at Sundance 2024 and what begins as a comedic road trip spirals into a reflective journey of self-discovery and healing. Kieran Culkin delivers a standout performance, balancing sharp humor with emotional vulnerability that gives the film its heart. Parts of the film were shot in the actual villages where Eisenberg’s ancestors lived, adding a layer of authenticity to the story.

To recap, check out Memoir of a Snail, Dahomey, and And A Real Pain on your preferred rental or download platform.

Indie Classic on SVOD

And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re highlighting Muriel’s Wedding, directed by P.J. Hogan. This beloved dramedy from 1994 follows Muriel, played by Toni Collette, a socially awkward woman from a small Australian town who dreams of escaping her dreary life and finding love. With its iconic ABBA soundtrack, biting humor, and heartfelt moments, Muriel’s Wedding became an instant classic and remains a poignant exploration of self-worth, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness. I first saw this film when I was in law school, and it really took me away from the pressure of academics for a couple of hours. It also brought me back to my childhood in England when I first heard ABBA during the Eurovision Song Contest. You can stream it on several platforms including PlutoTV.

Glen Reynolds 1/1/25 Glen Reynolds 1/1/25

Indie Film Weekly [EP 3]: The Damned (2024) & Sideways (2004)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

Each week, we will first spotlight new indie films that are hitting theaters. For these films, I would suggest searching for them on Fandango or Google to see if they are showing in your city. And if you must travel across town, please do. It’s important to support indie films by getting to the theater.

In addition, we will also highlight some recent standout indie films that, are not on a streaming service like Netflix, but you can rent or download them on Amazon, AppleTV, YouTube Movies and Fandango at Home. It is also important to support indie film on these platforms. Not every indie film gets a Netflix deal.

Finally, we will also focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on Netflix, Hulu, Max or some other subscription service.

Indie Film Weekly is proudly brought to you by Indie Igniter, your go-to resource for marketing your independent film and reaching your audience. Check it out at theindieigniter.com and subscribe to our newsletter.

New in Theaters

Let’s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend!

First up, we have The Damned, directed by Thordur Palsson. It’s a horror film set in a 19th-century Icelandic fishing village during a brutal winter. A shipwreck leaves a crew stranded near this isolated community and the villagers must decide if they should aid the survivors or worry about their own survival because their own supplies are running out. In fact, behind the scenes, the production team braved a real Icelandic winter to capture the film’s chilling authenticity, with cast and crew often battling subzero temperatures and harsh winds on location. The premiered to great reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival last June and also played at Sitges which is a great genre festival in Spain. The buzz is that it’s an intriguing horror film that creatively showcases the damaging effects of guilt.

Next, also in theaters, there’s Vermiglio, directed by Maura Delpero. It is an Italian drama set in the small Alpine village of Vermiglio during the final days of World War II. The story follows a family grappling with the hardships of war when their already strained existence is disrupted by Pietro, a mysterious Sicilian soldier. As tensions rise, secrets from the past resurface, forcing the family to confront old wounds and new alliances. It is said that its intimate portrayal of family dynamics is what earned it the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival back in August. And it’s now nominated for a Golden Globe as best non-English speaking movie.

Also in theatres this weekend, another horror/thriller film set in a small town entitled The Monster Beneath Us, directed by Sophie Osbourne. This time we are delving into the fears and secrets lurking in a small town in 19th century Yorkshire England. When unexplained disappearances plague the community, a group of locals bands together to confront the unknown entity responsible. This film premiered at Frightfest in the UK and it is said that the film’s suspenseful narrative and atmospheric setting promise to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Look for these films in a theater near you: The Damned, Vermiglio, and The Monster Beneath Us.

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, A Different Man, directed by Aaron Schimberg, and starring Sebastian Stan. I was lucky enough to see this film at Sundance 2024. Stan plays a man who is undergoing facial reconstructive surgery and becomes obsessed with an actor portraying him in a stage production. As he attends rehearsals and watches the actor’s every move, his fixation grows, leading him to question what is real and what is performance. The film explores the psychological toll of identity crises, self-worth, and the masks we wear in society. What makes this film even more compelling is its intricate storytelling and the nuanced way it portrays Edward’s unraveling mind. Stan’s haunting performance earned him one of his two Golden Globe nominations this year, cementing the film’s place as a must-watch.

Next film found on demand is Lady Like, directed by Luke Willis, a documentary that offers an intimate look into the life of RuPaul’s Drag Race star, Lady Camden. The film explores her journey from a small-town performer to international fame, focusing on her resilience and creativity. Through candid interviews and archival footage, viewers gain insight into her personal struggles, including overcoming a traumatic past, and her triumphant rise in the drag world. With its mix of humor and raw emotion, Lady Like is a heartfelt celebration of self-expression and authenticity.

Finally we have, Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom, directed by Matt Busch. It’s a futuristic reimagining of the classic Arabian Nights tale, set in the year 3477. The film follows a resourceful Hong Kong thief whose obsession with the Princess of India propels him on a globe-trotting odyssey, where he crosses paths with an enigmatic ancient sage. Despite being very independent, this ambitious sci-fi adventure stands out for its stunning visual effects and richly detailed world-building. It’s the first installment in a planned trilogy, and Busch’s darker, more grounded approach gives the story a fresh and intriguing edge. For fans of epic adventures, this one’s not to be missed.

To recap, check out A Different Man, Lady Like, and Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom on your preferred rental or download platform.

Indie Classic on SVOD

And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re highlighting Sideways, directed by Alexander Payne. This dramedy, which premiered the Toronto International Film Festival in 2004, follows two middle-aged men, Miles and Jack, on a week-long road trip through California’s wine country. Along the way, they cross paths with Maya and Stephanie, two women who challenge their perspectives on love and life. The film is about friendship, love, and personal failure. Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church deliver standout performances, with Virginia Madsen and Sandra Oh adding depth and charm to the story. Fun fact: Giamatti’s character Miles talks with great passion in the film about Pinot Noir. After the release of the movie, Pinot Noir sales rose by 20 percent over the previous year. And Miles’ deeply disparaging view of Merlot caused its sales to drop. The power of cinema! Anyway, you can stream Sideways on Hulu and probably a few other streaming services.

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 on our weekly email newsletter. You can sign up for it 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 the Indie Film Weekly podcast —it’s a great way to support the indie film community. Until next week, keep watching, keep supporting indie film by going to the theater or renting these films, and I’ll see you back here soon!

Glen Reynolds 12/25/24 Glen Reynolds 12/25/24

Indie Film Weekly [EP 2]: Bloody Axe Wound (2024) & Parasite (2019)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

streaming service like Netflix, but you can rent or download them on Amazon, AppleTV, YouTube Movies and Fandango at Home. It is also important to support indie film on these platforms. Not every indie film gets a Netflix deal.

Finally, we will also focus on one classic indie film that you can stream right now on Netflix, Hulu, Max or some other subscription service.

New in Theaters

So let''‘s start with some films that will be in theaters this weekend! First up, we have Santosh, directed by Sandhya Suri. The film follows a widow who steps into her late husband’s job as a police officer in rural India. While investigating a murder, she finds herself up against a ton of corruption. The film keeps things real with a mix of professional actors and locals, making it feel like you’re right there with her as she pieces together the clues. The film does a great job of mixing a murder mystery, with a personal story, about perseverance and finding strength in the face of corruption.

Also in theaters, there’s Bloody Axe Wound, directed by Matthew John Lawrence, is a wild mix of horror and comedy. It’s about Abbie Bladecut, a teenager trying to escape her family’s creepy tradition of recording real-life killings. This movie has it all—over-the- top gore, lots of laughs, and even a little heart. One standout feature is the way the practical effects were designed to balance humor with shock, creating scenes that are as funny as they are gruesome. Fun fact: the director says his own offbeat family inspired parts of the story. That, is very troubling!

Lastly, Harbin, directed by Woo Min-ho, tells the gripping story of a Korean independence activist who takes a stand against colonial rule by assassinating a Japanese Prime Minister. The visuals are stunning, and the performances hit hard. What really sets this film apart is its meticulous attention to historical detail, from the costumes to the architecture, bringing 1909 Harbin to life. Some of the film’s most intense scenes were shot in subzero temperatures, adding a chilling intensity to the story.

Look for these films in a theatre near you: Santosh, Bloody Axe Wound and Harbin.

Films to Rent or Download

Are you looking for something to rent or download this week? Here are some standout options you can find on Amazon, AppleTV or YouTube Movies:

First, Anora, directed by Sean Baker, is a thriller about a Brooklyn sex worker who marries into unimaginable wealth—only to find herself in a battle with her powerful in-laws. It’s tense and raw, with lead actress Mikey Madison diving deep into the role. One of the film’s highlights is how it uses opulent set designs in contrast with Anora’s gritty, street-smart character. I think this one has some Oscar heat around it.

Next movie to rent or download is Bookworm, directed by Ant Timpson. It’s about Mildred, a shy teenager who’s more comfortable with books than people, suddenly thrust into the wilds of New Zealand on a camping trip with her rugged dad. He’s trying to reconnect after her mom is hospitalized, but things don’t go smoothly. The film mixes moments of awkward humor with heartfelt growth as they both learn to navigate their new dynamic. Set against New Zealand’s jaw-dropping scenery, it’s as much about finding yourself as it is about finding family. The cinematography shines, capturing the raw beauty of the wilderness and mirroring the emotional journey of its characters.

Finally, Rumours, directed by Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson and Galen Johnson, is a biting satire set during a chaotic G7 summit. The film follows a group of global leaders navigating a series of bizarre crises, from mysterious power outages to absurd diplomatic gaffes. It’s packed with surreal obstacles and absurd twists. Cate Blanchett was a fan of the director’s work so she jumped at the chance to join the project after reading the script. Her performance is so eccentric. There is a sense of unpredictability to every scene she’s in.

To recap, checkout Anora, Bookworm and Rumours anywhere you can rent or download a film.

Indie Classic on SVOD

And now on to our Indie Classic. This week, we’re celebrating the five-year anniversary of Parasite, Bong Joon-ho’s genre-defying masterpiece, on Max. The story follows two families—the wealthy Parks and the struggling Kims—whose lives become deeply intertwined. The Kims infiltrate the Parks’ home by posing as highly skilled professionals, but their plans start to unravel in ways they never saw coming. It’s a sharp, suspenseful, and darkly funny look at class divisions and human nature. And here’s a fun detail: the iconic flood scene was shot using a massive water tank, and the production team spent weeks designing the set to capture the devastating impact of the flood on the Kims’ underground home. It’s a visually stunning moment that perfectly highlights the contrast between the two families' lives. The film’s writing and pacing keep you hooked from start to finish, with every twist landing just right. So, Parasite, check it out, or watch again, on Max.

Glen Reynolds 12/18/24 Glen Reynolds 12/18/24

Indie Film Weekly [EP 1]: The Apprentice (2024) & Boyhood (2014)

Indie Film Weekly

Listen to this blog post on the Indie Film Weekly podcast here!

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 festivals and distributors. Each week on this podcast, we’ll spotlight new indie films hitting theaters, standout picks you can rent or download, and a few classic indie gems streaming right now.

Indie Film Weekly is proudly brought to you by Indie Igniter, your go-to resource for marketing your independent film and reaching your audience. Check them out at theindieigniter.com.

New In Theaters

So, what’s new in theaters starting this Friday, December 20th? First up is The Brutalist, a historical drama directed by Brady Corbet. It tells the story of visionary architect László Toth starting fresh in America as he navigates the challenges of cultural displacement while staying true to his artistic vision. Adrien Brody stars in this one, andthere is definitely Oscar buzz around his performance. I’ve worked on a couple of his films in the past (Oxygen and Dummy) and consulted on Clean, which he produced and directed. I am always curious to see what he does next.

Next, we’ve got The Count of Monte Cristo, a historical adventure directed by Alexandre de La Patellière. It is a French production that was shot in some of the same locations as the 2002 adaptation, adding a layer of homage for fans of the story. It follows Edmond Dantès as he transforms himself into the vengeful Count after being betrayed by those he trusted most. Another interesting fact: the sword fights were choreographed by a team from Game of Thrones.

Finally, there’s The Room Next Door, a psychological drama directed and written by Pedro Almodóvar. A heartfelt story about reconnecting with family, the film delves into the strained relationship between a mother and daughter as they confront buried secrets. Not only does it star Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton—yes, both of them—but it also explores themes of memory and perception, with much of the story unfolding through a series of dreamlike flashbacks. This unique narrative approach from the Spanish master promises to offer a deeply immersive experience.

Films to Rent or Download

Now let’s talk about some great indie films you can rent or download on AppleTV, Amazon or YouTube Movies. These aren’t on streaming services yet, so your rental dollars go straight to supporting independent cinema.

First, The Apprentice, a political drama directed by David Frankel, is set in the 1970s during Donald Trump’s early Manhattan days. It reveals the high-stakes power plays behind his rise, focusing on his controversial mentorship under Roy Cohn. Jeremy Strong from the hit HBO show Succession plays Roy Cohn, and he’s amazing in the role. If you love sharp dialogue and political intrigue, this might be your pick.

Next up, We Live in Time, a romantic drama directed by John Crowley, is a love story with a twist. It unpacks how a chance meeting changes the course of two lives forever, challenging their perceptions of fate and connection. Shot in small charming European towns, the locations alone might win you over. Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh star in a story that explores the intricacies of love and time, making it a thought-provoking watch.

And then there’s Bad Genius, a heist thriller directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya. It’s a thriller from Thailand about high-stakes cheating. The story follows a group of students as they mastermind an elaborate exam scam that grows dangerously out of control. Interesting note: the lead actress trained with actual magicians to nail her sleight-of-hand moves. Think Ocean’s Eleven meets high school exams, with plenty of nail-biting moments and clever twists.

Indie Classic on SVOD

Now for an indie classic you can stream right now. This week, it’s Richard Linklater’s Boyhood, available on Amazon Prime. I’ve seen this one a couple of times, and honestly, it’s as good as everyone says. Filmed over 12 years—it captures life’s ups and downs like nothing else. Fun fact: they used the same camera setup for the whole shoot, which is kind of unheard of in Hollywood. The performances are raw, real, and unforgettable. If you haven’t seen it, make it your weekend plan.

If a film we discussed caught your interest, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, rate and review—it’s a great free way to support the indie film community. Until next week, keep watching, keep supporting indie film, and I’ll see you back here soon!