- Published on
press release
A GRIPPING TALE OF
FAITH, FEAR, AND THE DARKNESS WITHIN
THE SEVERED SUN
FROM DIRECTOR DEAN PUCKETT
Coming to Theaters + VOD/Digital Platforms
May 16th from Dark Sky Films
SYNOPSIS:
In the heart of an isolated religious community, The Pastor delivers his fervent sermons to a devoted congregation. But dark secrets fester. In the depths of the forest, The Pastor's daughter, Magpie, takes desperate action, ending the life of her abusive husband. Little does she know, his murder will unleash a malevolent force—a mysterious beast with shimmering white eyes.
As weeks pass, suspicion and paranoia grip the community, with accusatory fingers pointed at Magpie. The Pastor struggles to restore Magpie’s dwindling faith, and he is unable to bring her back into “The Truth.” Faith is fragile, and Magpie is hell bent on rebelling against the hypocrisy of her father.
When the Beast leaves a trail of gruesome carnage, a brutal witch hunt ignites. In this gripping tale of faith, fear, and the darkness within, friendships crumble, loyalties are tested, and the community hurtles toward self-destruction.
In the heart of an isolated religious community, The Pastor delivers his fervent sermons to a devoted congregation. But dark secrets fester. In the depths of the forest, The Pastor's daughter, Magpie, takes desperate action, ending the life of her abusive husband. Little does she know, his murder will unleash a malevolent force—a mysterious beast with shimmering white eyes.
As weeks pass, suspicion and paranoia grip the community, with accusatory fingers pointed at Magpie. The Pastor struggles to restore Magpie’s dwindling faith, and he is unable to bring her back into “The Truth.” Faith is fragile, and Magpie is hell bent on rebelling against the hypocrisy of her father.
When the Beast leaves a trail of gruesome carnage, a brutal witch hunt ignites. In this gripping tale of faith, fear, and the darkness within, friendships crumble, loyalties are tested, and the community hurtles toward self-destruction.
Directed & Written by: Dean Puckett (shorts: The Sermon, The Devil's Footprints, Satan's Bite: or The Foolishness of the Witchfinder Thomas Eastchurch)
Produced by: Rebecca Wolff & Jude Goldrei
Cast: Emma Appleton (The Witcher, Pistol, LOLA, The Killing Kind), Toby Stephens (Lost In Space), Jodhi May (The Silent Twins), Lewis Gribben (T2 Trainspotting, Limbo, Masters of the Air), Barney Harris (The Wheel of Time, The Hollow Crown, Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk), Oliver Maltman (Another Year), and James Swanton (Dashcam, Host)
Genre: Folk Horror
Distributor: Dark Sky Films
Run Time: 80 minutes
WHAT THE CRITICS ARE SAYING...
"The Severed Sun is a solid entry in folk horror canon, with a clear message and some impressive effects work and a strong central performance."
- BLOODY DISGUSTING
"The Severed Sun is a deeply immersive and atmospheric folk horror in the truest, traditional sense... It’s an auteur’s work – a beautifully considered movie in which all its key components work in harmony."
- THE GEEK SHOW
"Aficionados of folk horror films should find The Severed Sun to be a compelling slice of cinema."
- HORROR FUEL
"Dean Puckett’s debut as a director is visually stunning, with gorgeous shots that capture the eerie, haunting beauty of the countryside. The film nails the creepy atmosphere, with dark woodlands and an oppressive religious setting adding to the tension and growing sense of dread. This movie is chilling to watch, just from the visuals alone."
- SCREEN ZEALOTS
"The Severed Sun is a gripping addition to the folk horror pantheon, with standout performances, stunning, cinematography, and a chilling exploration of the dangers of absolute religious power. Fans of the genre will delight in its slow-burn tension and immersive atmosphere."
- THE HORROR REVOLUTION
Produced by: Rebecca Wolff & Jude Goldrei
Cast: Emma Appleton (The Witcher, Pistol, LOLA, The Killing Kind), Toby Stephens (Lost In Space), Jodhi May (The Silent Twins), Lewis Gribben (T2 Trainspotting, Limbo, Masters of the Air), Barney Harris (The Wheel of Time, The Hollow Crown, Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk), Oliver Maltman (Another Year), and James Swanton (Dashcam, Host)
Genre: Folk Horror
Distributor: Dark Sky Films
Run Time: 80 minutes
WHAT THE CRITICS ARE SAYING...
"The Severed Sun is a solid entry in folk horror canon, with a clear message and some impressive effects work and a strong central performance."
- BLOODY DISGUSTING
"The Severed Sun is a deeply immersive and atmospheric folk horror in the truest, traditional sense... It’s an auteur’s work – a beautifully considered movie in which all its key components work in harmony."
- THE GEEK SHOW
"Aficionados of folk horror films should find The Severed Sun to be a compelling slice of cinema."
- HORROR FUEL
"Dean Puckett’s debut as a director is visually stunning, with gorgeous shots that capture the eerie, haunting beauty of the countryside. The film nails the creepy atmosphere, with dark woodlands and an oppressive religious setting adding to the tension and growing sense of dread. This movie is chilling to watch, just from the visuals alone."
- SCREEN ZEALOTS
"The Severed Sun is a gripping addition to the folk horror pantheon, with standout performances, stunning, cinematography, and a chilling exploration of the dangers of absolute religious power. Fans of the genre will delight in its slow-burn tension and immersive atmosphere."
- THE HORROR REVOLUTION
About Dark Sky Films
Dark Sky Films, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPI Media Group, is an independent genre film production and distribution label founded in 2008. Dark Sky Films works with emerging talent as well as established veterans to develop, produce and finance feature films and episodic television projects. Representing films from some of most talented directors working today, such as Ti West’s The House of the Devil and The Innkeepers, and Jim Mickle’s Stake Land, Dark Sky continues to identify original talent and projects to bring a vibrant slate of films to the world market, with original productions and releases such as Girl on the Third Floor, We Are Still Here, Deathgasm, Emelie, Catfight, Darlin’, Bliss and most recently, The Dark and 1BR. | Follow us on twitter: @darkskyfilms @mpimediagroup
Dark Sky Films, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPI Media Group, is an independent genre film production and distribution label founded in 2008. Dark Sky Films works with emerging talent as well as established veterans to develop, produce and finance feature films and episodic television projects. Representing films from some of most talented directors working today, such as Ti West’s The House of the Devil and The Innkeepers, and Jim Mickle’s Stake Land, Dark Sky continues to identify original talent and projects to bring a vibrant slate of films to the world market, with original productions and releases such as Girl on the Third Floor, We Are Still Here, Deathgasm, Emelie, Catfight, Darlin’, Bliss and most recently, The Dark and 1BR. | Follow us on twitter: @darkskyfilms @mpimediagroup
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so little time ...
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in the United States of America (USA! USA! USA!) all the way back in the year 2019 that -- ahem -- illegal immigration and the general invasion of undocumented immigrants took on a Hollyweird inversion when audiences of the Phoenix Film Festival were treated to the exclusive theatrical premere of Beneath Us.
Written (in part) and directed by Max Pachman, the Horror/Fantasy (Comedy?) starred Lynn Collins, Rigo Sanchez, Josue Aguirre, James Tupper, Roberto Sanchez, Thomas Chavira, Edy Ganem, Nicholas Gonzalez, Andrew Burlinson, David Castro, and more.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In BENEATH US, the American Dream becomes a nightmare for a group of undocumented day laborers hired by a wealthy couple (played by Lynn Collins and James Tupper). What they hope to be their biggest payday turns into a terrifying fight for survival at the couple's secluded mansion, and those thought to be helpless must prove they can't be discarded so easily."
-- EZ
About Vital Pictures
Vital Pictures is a Minority/Veteran-owned movie production, acquisition, and distribution company. Vital was formed in 2019 as a Qualified Opportunity Zone Business. Management collectively has over 50 years’ experience in both studio and independent movie/TV production and exploitation. Committed to a philosophy of making, acquiring, and releasing films for defined audiences, Vital also approaches each film from a filmmakers' point of view to ensure that each movie is given the attention and focus it deserves.
Vital Pictures is a Minority/Veteran-owned movie production, acquisition, and distribution company. Vital was formed in 2019 as a Qualified Opportunity Zone Business. Management collectively has over 50 years’ experience in both studio and independent movie/TV production and exploitation. Committed to a philosophy of making, acquiring, and releasing films for defined audiences, Vital also approaches each film from a filmmakers' point of view to ensure that each movie is given the attention and focus it deserves.
- Published on
press release
According to press materials, Kino Lorber is preparing to release the French-language Science Fiction Comedy titled The Empire in both Blu-ray and DVD formats this May 6, 2025.
Synopsis:
In a quiet and picturesque fishing village in Northern France, a very special child is born, unleashing a secret war between extraterrestrial forces of good and evil. In an attempt to restore their empires, two opposing forces from the depths of outer space, One and Zero, unleash an apocalyptic conflict on Earth. The villainous Zero forces secretly take over the bodies of village locals in order to foster pandemonium on our planet. At the same time, a new species engineered by the One is working towards a new, harmonious evolution. While waiting for the final battle, the imperial legions struggle to win humanity over to their cause. If that all sounds a bit out there, that’s because this slapstick space opera comes from the singular mind of Bruno Dumont (France, Slack Bay). Featuring wonderfully bizarre performances from French stars like Fabrice Luchini, Camille Cottin, and Anamaria Vartolomei, this gonzo sci-fi spectacle is part Star Wars, part Spaceballs, and 100% Dumont.
ABOUT KINO LORBER:
With a library of over 4,000 titles, Kino Lorber has been a leader in independent art house distribution for over 45 years, releasing 35 films per year theatrically and garnering seven Academy Award® nominations in nine years. Most recently, the company has expanded its own direct digital platforms through the acquisition of leading international series streamers MHz Choice and Topic and the launch of Kino Film Collection, a subscription service for film lovers showcasing new releases direct from theaters plus curated international, indie, and documentary films and newly restored classics from the Kino Lorber library. Additionally, the company brings hundreds of titles annually to the home entertainment and educational markets through digital and physical media releases.
- Published on
press release
According to press materials, Imprint Films has scheduled to release Capricorn One (1978) -- the great Science Fiction / Conspiracy postulating a faked Mars landing gone awry -- in an all-new limited collection this September, 2025.
Capricorn One (1978) – Imprint Collection #355
An audience favourite, Capricorn One was the most successful independent film of 1978, presenting the story of a manned mission to Mars which was faked, and the crew who realise their survival will expose the hoax.
Starring Elliott Gould, James Brolin, Brenda Vaccaro, O.J. Simpson and Karen Black, this action-thriller was written and directed by Peter Hyams (2010: The Year We Make Contact), with a score by Jerry Goldsmith.
The whole world is watching the first manned flight to Mars, whilst its three astronauts are plunged into a hair-raising battle for survival, within a clandestine operation involving intrigue and murder.
This Limited Edition 2-Disc Hardbox includes both the original Theatrical Cut and the rarely-seen 129-minute Extended Cut, both in high-definition.
1500 copies only.
Special Features and Technical Specs:
Disc One – Theatrical Cut
Disc Two – Extended Cut
“Considering how little love that Capricorn One has received on home video up to this point, that’s a pretty impressive slate of extras. … The inclusion of the extended Japanese cut is worth the price of admission alone. … This is still the true special edition release of Capricorn One that we’ve always wanted but never received prior to this point. It’s a must-own for Capricorn One fans, Peter Hyams fans, and fans of paranoia thrillers in general.”
– The Digital Bits
Capricorn One (1978) – Imprint Collection #355
An audience favourite, Capricorn One was the most successful independent film of 1978, presenting the story of a manned mission to Mars which was faked, and the crew who realise their survival will expose the hoax.
Starring Elliott Gould, James Brolin, Brenda Vaccaro, O.J. Simpson and Karen Black, this action-thriller was written and directed by Peter Hyams (2010: The Year We Make Contact), with a score by Jerry Goldsmith.
The whole world is watching the first manned flight to Mars, whilst its three astronauts are plunged into a hair-raising battle for survival, within a clandestine operation involving intrigue and murder.
This Limited Edition 2-Disc Hardbox includes both the original Theatrical Cut and the rarely-seen 129-minute Extended Cut, both in high-definition.
1500 copies only.
Special Features and Technical Specs:
Disc One – Theatrical Cut
- 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
- Audio Commentary by director Peter Hyams
- Flights of Fancy: The Politics and Paranoia of Capricorn One – vintage featurette
- What If?: The Making of Capricorn One – vintage featurette – vintage featurette
- On Set with Capricorn One – vintage location footage
- Theatrical Trailer
- Photo Gallery
- Audio English LPCM 2.0 Stereo
- Original Aspect Ratio 2.35:1
- Optional English HOH Subtitles
Disc Two – Extended Cut
- 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
- NEW Audio Commentary by film historian/filmmaker Daniel Kremer and screenwriter Daniel Waters (2024)
- NEW Conspiracy Busting – Interview with actor Elliott Gould (2024)
- NEW Confessions of an Astronaut’s Wife – Interview with actress Brenda Vaccaro (2024)
- NEW How the Capricorn Was Won: Getting the Greenlight – Interview with producer Paul Lazarus (2024)
- NEW A Lady of Wondrous Abandon: Remembering the Incomparable Karen Black (2013 eulogy by Elliott Gould)
- NEW Orchestrating a Conspiracy – movie music guru Daniel Schweiger on the Capricorn One score (2024)
- Audio English LPCM 2.0 Mono
- Original Aspect Ratio 2.35:1
“Considering how little love that Capricorn One has received on home video up to this point, that’s a pretty impressive slate of extras. … The inclusion of the extended Japanese cut is worth the price of admission alone. … This is still the true special edition release of Capricorn One that we’ve always wanted but never received prior to this point. It’s a must-own for Capricorn One fans, Peter Hyams fans, and fans of paranoia thrillers in general.”
– The Digital Bits
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so little time ...
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in the United States of America (USA! USA! USA!) all the way back in the year 2007 that audiences in attendance of the New Filmmakers event were treated to the first theatrical screening ever of Synapse.
Written and directed for the screen by Sloan Copeland, the SciFi/Drama starred Michael Giese, Juliet Mantiply, Charles Edwin Powell, Adam Saunders, Brianne Berkson, Frank Copeland, Kelly Dansky, James A. Earley, Michael J. Ewing, Wanda O'Connell, and more.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary
"Seth Alden, a 28 year old graduate neural science student, has been experimenting with the possible electromagnetic manipulation of the brain. He is led to experiment on himself - giving him an ability similar to telepathy. Through a new perspective, Seth begins to experience other people's perceptions, vulnerabilities, ulterior motives, and inner-selves. As the telepathic ability grows, he experiences repeated blackouts and alternate realities. He becomes isolated and paranoid... and ultimately uncovers what existence truly means."
-- EZ
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in the United States of America (USA! USA! USA!) all the way back in the year 2007 that audiences in attendance of the New Filmmakers event were treated to the first theatrical screening ever of Synapse.
Written and directed for the screen by Sloan Copeland, the SciFi/Drama starred Michael Giese, Juliet Mantiply, Charles Edwin Powell, Adam Saunders, Brianne Berkson, Frank Copeland, Kelly Dansky, James A. Earley, Michael J. Ewing, Wanda O'Connell, and more.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary
"Seth Alden, a 28 year old graduate neural science student, has been experimenting with the possible electromagnetic manipulation of the brain. He is led to experiment on himself - giving him an ability similar to telepathy. Through a new perspective, Seth begins to experience other people's perceptions, vulnerabilities, ulterior motives, and inner-selves. As the telepathic ability grows, he experiences repeated blackouts and alternate realities. He becomes isolated and paranoid... and ultimately uncovers what existence truly means."
-- EZ
- Published on
in memoriam
Folks, I'd just noticed that word has reached the World Wide Web regarding the passing of long-time character actor Bruce French (1945-2025). Actually, it looks like he passed a few months back, but I'm only just seeing it being reported fairly recently.
As I often point out, a great many of the talent I feature in this space might not exactly be known commodities. It takes an incredible number of actors, actresses, writers, directors, and more to bring any production to life; and I've always had a fondness for familiar faces, not just those big names attached to a bigger film or television series. French certainly qualifies in that respect, as his professional resume on IMDB.com shows he leaves behind a legacy of over 150 different screen appearances.
Genre fans might know of the man through his work aboard such properties as:
Though he's no longer with us, we'll always have the work he leaves behind to remember him by.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of Bruce French.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
As I often point out, a great many of the talent I feature in this space might not exactly be known commodities. It takes an incredible number of actors, actresses, writers, directors, and more to bring any production to life; and I've always had a fondness for familiar faces, not just those big names attached to a bigger film or television series. French certainly qualifies in that respect, as his professional resume on IMDB.com shows he leaves behind a legacy of over 150 different screen appearances.
Genre fans might know of the man through his work aboard such properties as:
- The Savage Bees (1976)
- Curse Of The Black Widow (1977)
- Ants! (1977)
- Terror Out Of The Sky (1978)
- Star Wars: The Original Radio Drama (1981)
- Mysterious Two (1982)
- Airplane II: The Sequel (1982)
- The Powers Of Matthew Star (1983)
- Special Bulletin (1983)
- Christine (1983)
- Highway To Heaven (1987)
- Martians Go Home (1989)
- Star Trek: The Next Generation (1991)
- Star Trek: Voyager (1995)
- The Outer Limits (1995)
- Team Knight Rider (1997)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Jurassic Park III (2001)
- Mission Impossible III (2006)
- Eli Stone (2008)
Though he's no longer with us, we'll always have the work he leaves behind to remember him by.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of Bruce French.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
- Published on
press release
Vanessa Ly's 'Memories of the Future' Awarded Best PKD Feature
Brian Avenet-Bradley and Laurence Avenet-Bradley's
'The Protos Experiment' Named Best Supernatural Horror
(NYC) April 9, 2025 — The Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival has announced the award winners for its 12th annual event, which presented films, panels, writing competitions, and immersive experiences. Live screenings were held from April 4-6 in Manhattan and Brooklyn, with an online edition as well. Exploring the influence of novelist Philip K. Dick and the sci-fi community, the event recognized 24 official selections for outstanding filmmaking and storytelling. For more information on this year’s lineup, visit https://www.thephilipkdickfilmfestival.com.
Congratulations to the award winners of The 2025 Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival:
Best Philip K. Dick Feature
Memories of the Future, 2024 — World Premiere
Director Vanessa Ly
United States, 116 min
In a near future, a genius scientist recounts how he created the first androids, exact replicas of deceased children. In a very distant future, a small community of children-androids lives on a remote island. The arrival of a female teenager, the only human, changes the pace of their life. Two androids embark on their last journey to find the Truth. Starring William Fichtner and Aurora Quattrocchi.
Best Supernatural Horror Feature
The Protos Experiment, 2024 — East Coast Premiere
Directors Brian Avenet-Bradley, Laurence Avenet-Bradley
United States, 88 min
Kyra and John wake in a strange prison...they’re not alone. They discover they are chained and are utterly vulnerable in the presence of nightmarish, prowling figures controlled by unseen captors.
Best Animation Feature
Who Said Death Is Beautiful?, 2023
Director Ryo Nakajima
Japan, 70 minutes
In a zombie-infested Japan, Rika, an infected intern, cares for genius Rei and sister Yuna. Yuna turns into a zombie; Rika and Rei flee. Rika suggests escaping abroad with Takashiba for hope; Rei wants to return home. At Rei's, they face a transformed Yuna's confession. Amid despair, is hope alive?
Best Student Feature
The Last Night in the Life of Death, 2024 — NY Premiere
Director Isaiah Brody
United States, 79 min
Every night, Death comes to take care of people who move on from here to forever. But this night - tonight - something has changed, and Death is confronted with the possibility that there is no longer any use for his kind. Through seven encounters, Death begins to understand his true fate.
Best Feature Documentary
Sex Robot Madness, 2025 — U.S. Premiere
Director Jimmy Mehiel
United States, 94 min
As Big Tech shifts its focus from the attention economy to the emerging “intimacy economy,” the question arises: Are we ready for customizable lovebots designed to push our most primal buttons? Sex Robot Madness is a fast-paced, unapologetic dive into human-machine intimacy, where the line between connection and commodification blurs.
Best Philip K. Dick Short
First Sight, 2024 — NY Premiere
Director Andrew McGee
United Kingdom, 19 min
Luna's dating life takes a dark turn in this gripping story about love, loss, and augmented reality. The future is in sight. Starring Ellise Chappell Poldark and Young Wallander, and Jacob Fortune-Lloyd.
Best Sci-Fi Short
Anwar, 2024
Director Fawaz Al-Matrouk
Canada, 19 min
Anwar is a personal sci-fi about a mother who chose to live forever, and a son who longs for heaven. We see Anwar age from 8 to 18 to 80, while Mona remains eternal throughout, until he has a final moment of doubt, and she has a final moment of hope.
Best Supernatural Short
Rebecca, 2024 — U.S. Premiere
Director Gerard Corporon
France, 18 min
After visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp, a couple who witnessed something that deeply upset them search for an explanation for what they experienced.
Best Isolation in Sci-Fi Short
Interference, 2024
Director Lila Woodbridge
United States, 25 min
The story of one teenage boy’s struggle with paranoia and identity amidst the start of the AIDS epidemic in the early 1980s.
Best Experimental Sci-Fi Short
Creature, 2024
Director Georg Koszulinski
United States, 12 min
In a future world ravaged by war and ecological collapse, an extraterrestrial entity appears in the form of a glacier.
Best Singularity, Eschaton and Beyond Infinity Short
De Profvndis, 2024
Director Nina McNeely
United States, 4 min
Directed by acclaimed choreographer Nina McNeely, featuring CLI Conservatory, “De Profvndis” captures the essence of iconic religious artworks, with dancers embodying the spirit of ascension, the vibrancy of life, the solemnity of death, the passion of love, the purity of innocence, and the sanctity of ritual.
Best Animation Short
Do Bangladroids Dream Of Electric Tagore?, 2024
Director Aleem Hossain
United States, 3 min
In the year 2065, a Bangladeshi-American documentary explores what the Bangladroids recall of their homeland.
Best Student Short
Lillo, 2023
Director Andrea Figueroa
Mexico, 8min
After the death of his father, a little boy has to do the cornfield harvest on his own, overcoming his loss with the help of his imagination.
Best Short Documentary
The Shaver Mystery, 2024
Director Dean Bertram
United States, 14 min
Was sci-fi writer Richard Shaver really abducted and tormented by a malevolent underground race of hideous humanoids, known as the “Dero”? Regardless, his “true” stories – known collectively as “The Shaver Mystery” and sometimes ghost written by editor Raymond A. Palmer.
Best Web Series
Salamander: A Mystery
Director Gabe Sentlinger
Canada, 10 min
Erik Fisher is living in his van down by the river. Without much going for him, besides his 2-4 listeners on his streaming radio show, NightShades, his life is turned upside down when a mysterious stranger delivers a package containing a toy Salamander with a note signed “Mom."
Best AI Short
Bad Seed, 2024
Director Karan Sridharan
India, 6 minutes
A man meets his maker and doesn't like what he sees.
Best Music Video
Greed, 2024
Director Mike Hay
United Kingdom, 6 min
A lone battle-scarred woman navigates the streets of a city in the future, where the populace is enslaved by the tyrannical GovCorp. As she moves further into the heart of darkness, Vita is determined to break the cycle of greed and repression.
Best Graphic Novel
Hemlock Ave: Book One: Hopes & Nightmares
Best Sci-Fi Screenplay
The Boy Who Found Infinity
Writer Richard Fenwick
UK
Best Sci-Fi World Building Screenplay
Buddy/Joe
Writer Cameron Young
United States
Best Supernatural Screenplay
The Bog
Writer Jan Buttram
United States
Best Short Screenplay
Digital Support Group #75,000B
Writer Linda Pallotta
United States
Honorable Mention
Bloom, 2024
Directors Rachel Morgan, Paul Del Gesso
United States, 15 min
Struggling to make it as a model in New York City, Flora Piper gets an unexpected offer from a fashion photographer to care-take his plant-filled studio. This mysterious and mystical opportunity may change her life forever. Starring Grainger Hines and Emily Bennett.
Honorable Mention
Universe 25, 2023
Director David Tappan
United States, 20 min
A mysterious entity. A bizarre psychological experiment. Imprisoned in “The Room,” a woman can’t know anyone longer than 30 days. It’s difficult to say what’s worse: knowing that anyone she cares about will disappear, or that they might be replaced by someone worse. With no hope of escape, she must confront the absurdity of her new existence.
Contact:
For interview requests and press accreditation, contact Jonathan Carsten at PressReleased1@gmail.com.
About The Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival:
The Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival, which launched in 2012 as New York City's first and only festival of its kind, honors the enduring legacy of novelist Philip K. Dick. His enormously effective works composed of fictional universes, virtual realities, dystopian worlds, and human mutation served as a significant observation into the current state of society. Organized by individuals and filmmakers who understand the difficulties and challenges of presenting unique narratives in a corporate environment, the festival embraces original concepts and alternative approaches to storytelling. Since 2013, the festival has held additional gatherings in France, Germany, Poland, Rotterdam, and Los Angeles. The event was named one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2022.
Connect with us:
Website: https://www.thephilipkdickfilmfestival.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePhilipKDickFilmFestival
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/philipkdickfest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipkdickfest
Congratulations to the award winners of The 2025 Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival:
Best Philip K. Dick Feature
Memories of the Future, 2024 — World Premiere
Director Vanessa Ly
United States, 116 min
In a near future, a genius scientist recounts how he created the first androids, exact replicas of deceased children. In a very distant future, a small community of children-androids lives on a remote island. The arrival of a female teenager, the only human, changes the pace of their life. Two androids embark on their last journey to find the Truth. Starring William Fichtner and Aurora Quattrocchi.
Best Supernatural Horror Feature
The Protos Experiment, 2024 — East Coast Premiere
Directors Brian Avenet-Bradley, Laurence Avenet-Bradley
United States, 88 min
Kyra and John wake in a strange prison...they’re not alone. They discover they are chained and are utterly vulnerable in the presence of nightmarish, prowling figures controlled by unseen captors.
Best Animation Feature
Who Said Death Is Beautiful?, 2023
Director Ryo Nakajima
Japan, 70 minutes
In a zombie-infested Japan, Rika, an infected intern, cares for genius Rei and sister Yuna. Yuna turns into a zombie; Rika and Rei flee. Rika suggests escaping abroad with Takashiba for hope; Rei wants to return home. At Rei's, they face a transformed Yuna's confession. Amid despair, is hope alive?
Best Student Feature
The Last Night in the Life of Death, 2024 — NY Premiere
Director Isaiah Brody
United States, 79 min
Every night, Death comes to take care of people who move on from here to forever. But this night - tonight - something has changed, and Death is confronted with the possibility that there is no longer any use for his kind. Through seven encounters, Death begins to understand his true fate.
Best Feature Documentary
Sex Robot Madness, 2025 — U.S. Premiere
Director Jimmy Mehiel
United States, 94 min
As Big Tech shifts its focus from the attention economy to the emerging “intimacy economy,” the question arises: Are we ready for customizable lovebots designed to push our most primal buttons? Sex Robot Madness is a fast-paced, unapologetic dive into human-machine intimacy, where the line between connection and commodification blurs.
Best Philip K. Dick Short
First Sight, 2024 — NY Premiere
Director Andrew McGee
United Kingdom, 19 min
Luna's dating life takes a dark turn in this gripping story about love, loss, and augmented reality. The future is in sight. Starring Ellise Chappell Poldark and Young Wallander, and Jacob Fortune-Lloyd.
Best Sci-Fi Short
Anwar, 2024
Director Fawaz Al-Matrouk
Canada, 19 min
Anwar is a personal sci-fi about a mother who chose to live forever, and a son who longs for heaven. We see Anwar age from 8 to 18 to 80, while Mona remains eternal throughout, until he has a final moment of doubt, and she has a final moment of hope.
Best Supernatural Short
Rebecca, 2024 — U.S. Premiere
Director Gerard Corporon
France, 18 min
After visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp, a couple who witnessed something that deeply upset them search for an explanation for what they experienced.
Best Isolation in Sci-Fi Short
Interference, 2024
Director Lila Woodbridge
United States, 25 min
The story of one teenage boy’s struggle with paranoia and identity amidst the start of the AIDS epidemic in the early 1980s.
Best Experimental Sci-Fi Short
Creature, 2024
Director Georg Koszulinski
United States, 12 min
In a future world ravaged by war and ecological collapse, an extraterrestrial entity appears in the form of a glacier.
Best Singularity, Eschaton and Beyond Infinity Short
De Profvndis, 2024
Director Nina McNeely
United States, 4 min
Directed by acclaimed choreographer Nina McNeely, featuring CLI Conservatory, “De Profvndis” captures the essence of iconic religious artworks, with dancers embodying the spirit of ascension, the vibrancy of life, the solemnity of death, the passion of love, the purity of innocence, and the sanctity of ritual.
Best Animation Short
Do Bangladroids Dream Of Electric Tagore?, 2024
Director Aleem Hossain
United States, 3 min
In the year 2065, a Bangladeshi-American documentary explores what the Bangladroids recall of their homeland.
Best Student Short
Lillo, 2023
Director Andrea Figueroa
Mexico, 8min
After the death of his father, a little boy has to do the cornfield harvest on his own, overcoming his loss with the help of his imagination.
Best Short Documentary
The Shaver Mystery, 2024
Director Dean Bertram
United States, 14 min
Was sci-fi writer Richard Shaver really abducted and tormented by a malevolent underground race of hideous humanoids, known as the “Dero”? Regardless, his “true” stories – known collectively as “The Shaver Mystery” and sometimes ghost written by editor Raymond A. Palmer.
Best Web Series
Salamander: A Mystery
Director Gabe Sentlinger
Canada, 10 min
Erik Fisher is living in his van down by the river. Without much going for him, besides his 2-4 listeners on his streaming radio show, NightShades, his life is turned upside down when a mysterious stranger delivers a package containing a toy Salamander with a note signed “Mom."
Best AI Short
Bad Seed, 2024
Director Karan Sridharan
India, 6 minutes
A man meets his maker and doesn't like what he sees.
Best Music Video
Greed, 2024
Director Mike Hay
United Kingdom, 6 min
A lone battle-scarred woman navigates the streets of a city in the future, where the populace is enslaved by the tyrannical GovCorp. As she moves further into the heart of darkness, Vita is determined to break the cycle of greed and repression.
Best Graphic Novel
Hemlock Ave: Book One: Hopes & Nightmares
Best Sci-Fi Screenplay
The Boy Who Found Infinity
Writer Richard Fenwick
UK
Best Sci-Fi World Building Screenplay
Buddy/Joe
Writer Cameron Young
United States
Best Supernatural Screenplay
The Bog
Writer Jan Buttram
United States
Best Short Screenplay
Digital Support Group #75,000B
Writer Linda Pallotta
United States
Honorable Mention
Bloom, 2024
Directors Rachel Morgan, Paul Del Gesso
United States, 15 min
Struggling to make it as a model in New York City, Flora Piper gets an unexpected offer from a fashion photographer to care-take his plant-filled studio. This mysterious and mystical opportunity may change her life forever. Starring Grainger Hines and Emily Bennett.
Honorable Mention
Universe 25, 2023
Director David Tappan
United States, 20 min
A mysterious entity. A bizarre psychological experiment. Imprisoned in “The Room,” a woman can’t know anyone longer than 30 days. It’s difficult to say what’s worse: knowing that anyone she cares about will disappear, or that they might be replaced by someone worse. With no hope of escape, she must confront the absurdity of her new existence.
Contact:
For interview requests and press accreditation, contact Jonathan Carsten at PressReleased1@gmail.com.
About The Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival:
The Philip K. Dick Science Fiction Film Festival, which launched in 2012 as New York City's first and only festival of its kind, honors the enduring legacy of novelist Philip K. Dick. His enormously effective works composed of fictional universes, virtual realities, dystopian worlds, and human mutation served as a significant observation into the current state of society. Organized by individuals and filmmakers who understand the difficulties and challenges of presenting unique narratives in a corporate environment, the festival embraces original concepts and alternative approaches to storytelling. Since 2013, the festival has held additional gatherings in France, Germany, Poland, Rotterdam, and Los Angeles. The event was named one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2022.
Connect with us:
Website: https://www.thephilipkdickfilmfestival.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePhilipKDickFilmFestival
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/philipkdickfest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipkdickfest
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so little time ...
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in France all the way back in the year 1990 that Mr. Frost enjoyed its first theatrical screening.
The picture shows directed by Philippe Setbon from a script attributed to Setbon along with Brad Lynch (novel), Derry Hall, and Louise Vincent. The film starred Jeff Goldblum, Kathy Baker, Alan Bates, Jean-Pierre Cassel, Daniel Gelin, François Négret, Maxime Leroux, Vincent Schiavelli, Roland Girard, Mike Marshall, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mr. Frost (Jeff Goldblum) is arrested and committed for murder after he is apprehended burying his victims in the garden. However, even while under psychiatric care and tight hospital security, it becomes obvious that Mr. Frost is not all he seems to be, but he is dangerous nonetheless."
-- EZ
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in France all the way back in the year 1990 that Mr. Frost enjoyed its first theatrical screening.
The picture shows directed by Philippe Setbon from a script attributed to Setbon along with Brad Lynch (novel), Derry Hall, and Louise Vincent. The film starred Jeff Goldblum, Kathy Baker, Alan Bates, Jean-Pierre Cassel, Daniel Gelin, François Négret, Maxime Leroux, Vincent Schiavelli, Roland Girard, Mike Marshall, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mr. Frost (Jeff Goldblum) is arrested and committed for murder after he is apprehended burying his victims in the garden. However, even while under psychiatric care and tight hospital security, it becomes obvious that Mr. Frost is not all he seems to be, but he is dangerous nonetheless."
-- EZ
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so little times ...
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in the great nation of Japan all the way back in the year 1995 that the singular creation that was Eko Eko Azarark: Wizard Of Darkness enjoyed its very first theatrical release.
Directed by Shimako Sato from a story by Shinichi Koga and Junki Takegami, the Horror feature starred Kimika Yoshino, Miho Kanno, Shu-Ma, Naozumi Takahashi, Ryôka Yuzuki, Mio Takaki, Mika Shibata, Juri Maezono, Tatsuki Hirabayashi, Yûta Okusawa, and more. Wikipedia.org states that the film and its sequels -- Eko Eko Azarak II: Birth Of The Wizard (1996) and Eko Eko Azarak: Misa The Dark Angel (1998) -- were based on the Japanese manga published from September, 1975 through March, 1979.
Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Misa Kuroi is an adorable high-school girl who arrives at her new school when it is falling under an evil supernatural force. Trying to figure out who's behind the supernatural attack, Misa also has to deal with assumptions by her fellow classmates that believe she is the one behind it all. Misa and twelve other students are kept late after school hours one day to retake an exam. Then, after sunset, the entire school is deserted, and the students find themselves trapped inside and their teacher no where to be found. One by one, the thirteen students are picked up and disposed of in horrific and graphic fashion. It is up to Misa to try and gain the trust of her fellow students so that she can protect them and stop the evil before it's too late."
From what I've been able to see online, the film received a bit of positive attention when it was screened in 1997 at the popular Fantasporto Film Festival in Portugal; and, in 1996, actress Kimika Yoshino took home top honors in the category of 'Best New Actress' at the Japanese Professional Movie Awards.
-- EZ
Lo and behold:
It was on this day in the great nation of Japan all the way back in the year 1995 that the singular creation that was Eko Eko Azarark: Wizard Of Darkness enjoyed its very first theatrical release.
Directed by Shimako Sato from a story by Shinichi Koga and Junki Takegami, the Horror feature starred Kimika Yoshino, Miho Kanno, Shu-Ma, Naozumi Takahashi, Ryôka Yuzuki, Mio Takaki, Mika Shibata, Juri Maezono, Tatsuki Hirabayashi, Yûta Okusawa, and more. Wikipedia.org states that the film and its sequels -- Eko Eko Azarak II: Birth Of The Wizard (1996) and Eko Eko Azarak: Misa The Dark Angel (1998) -- were based on the Japanese manga published from September, 1975 through March, 1979.
Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Misa Kuroi is an adorable high-school girl who arrives at her new school when it is falling under an evil supernatural force. Trying to figure out who's behind the supernatural attack, Misa also has to deal with assumptions by her fellow classmates that believe she is the one behind it all. Misa and twelve other students are kept late after school hours one day to retake an exam. Then, after sunset, the entire school is deserted, and the students find themselves trapped inside and their teacher no where to be found. One by one, the thirteen students are picked up and disposed of in horrific and graphic fashion. It is up to Misa to try and gain the trust of her fellow students so that she can protect them and stop the evil before it's too late."
From what I've been able to see online, the film received a bit of positive attention when it was screened in 1997 at the popular Fantasporto Film Festival in Portugal; and, in 1996, actress Kimika Yoshino took home top honors in the category of 'Best New Actress' at the Japanese Professional Movie Awards.
-- EZ
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so little time ...
Lo and behold:
It was all the way back in the year 2011 in this great land of ours, The United States Of America (USA! USA! USA!), that a little something-something under the name of Evil Bong 3: The Wrath Of Bong! (aka Evil Bong 3: Reefer Madness) enjoyed what IMDB.com reports was a limited theatrical release. While I can't attest for the accuracy of this run, I have learned that generally this means the feature film was shown in either one or a handful of locations via contractual agreement.
Directed by the legendary Charles Band from a story by Patrick Klepek and Domonic Muri, this Fantasy/Comedy starred John Patrick Jordan, Brian Lloyd, Mitch Eakins, Peter Stickles, Sonny Carl Davis, Jacob Witkin, Robin Sydney, Christina DeRosa, Amy Paffrath, Irwin Keyes, and more.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An evil alien bong crashes on earth. Its intent: world domination. Our stoner heroes are sent to the alien bong planet and held captive by nude alien beauties. Their only hope to escape and save planet earth: Eebee, the original Evil Bong."
And -- Holy Mother of Dragons -- a quick Google.com search informs me that there's no one, not two, not three, not four, not five, not six ... but an astonishing ten entries into this franchise! That, my friends, is a lot of toking, if you know what I mean.
-- EZ
Lo and behold:
It was all the way back in the year 2011 in this great land of ours, The United States Of America (USA! USA! USA!), that a little something-something under the name of Evil Bong 3: The Wrath Of Bong! (aka Evil Bong 3: Reefer Madness) enjoyed what IMDB.com reports was a limited theatrical release. While I can't attest for the accuracy of this run, I have learned that generally this means the feature film was shown in either one or a handful of locations via contractual agreement.
Directed by the legendary Charles Band from a story by Patrick Klepek and Domonic Muri, this Fantasy/Comedy starred John Patrick Jordan, Brian Lloyd, Mitch Eakins, Peter Stickles, Sonny Carl Davis, Jacob Witkin, Robin Sydney, Christina DeRosa, Amy Paffrath, Irwin Keyes, and more.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An evil alien bong crashes on earth. Its intent: world domination. Our stoner heroes are sent to the alien bong planet and held captive by nude alien beauties. Their only hope to escape and save planet earth: Eebee, the original Evil Bong."
And -- Holy Mother of Dragons -- a quick Google.com search informs me that there's no one, not two, not three, not four, not five, not six ... but an astonishing ten entries into this franchise! That, my friends, is a lot of toking, if you know what I mean.
-- EZ