A 1975 film by Enrico Januzzi The Seeing Eye Dog Who Saw Too Much has been exhumed by Eric Jackowitz who wrote, directed and stars as the Dog Scientist that brings a quirky invention to extract clues from the memory of the victim’s seeing eye dog to solve the mystery of the black-gloved killer at the Rome Symphony. The dog’s facial expression says it all… what the heck is happening here! It’s a short film that gives a fun experience to keep you guessing through the laughs and exaggerated slashing to the whodunit murder mystery.

Jackowitz used the limited time effectively giving it a similar resemblance to a grownup version of a Scooby Doo episode, but with classic cinematic style that blends sharp comedy with serious, dark themes, focusing on eccentric characters. This haunting film is all character driven with the intriguing, unusual suspects and victims compiling the pieces of the puzzle for the grand ruh-roh reveal.

The Seeing Eye Dog Who Saw Too Much had its world premiere at the 2026 SXSW Festival, and to no surprise it won the Audience Award. The small ensemble includes Ethan Edenburg (Maestro), Anna Garcia (Daria), Colton Eschief Mastro (Stelvio), Gabrielle Montes de Oca (Anne), Melissa Villaseñor (Cesar Salad Lady) and Tom Mcgovern (Angelo). Each actor was empowered to explore their roles freely, allowing them to immerse themselves in the joy of character creation making this an outrageously entertaining short film that I consider a fun hidden short mystery gem.

Directed by John Carney and co-written with Peter McDonald, Power Ballad has all the right notes that reaches star power greatness at the 2026 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Carney and McDonald created a rocking feel-good gem, combining perfect synchrony rhythmic music with the story of a gig-economy wedding singer, Rick (Paul Rudd), who befriends fading star, Danny (Nick Jonas), who decides to use Rick’s song and turn it into his next big hit without giving any acknowledgement to Rick.

There are plenty of comical moments between Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas. One of their most high-lighted scenes is when they share some brewskis and partake in some dubie-ous cloud of smoke during a jam session. I must say that I never imagined to see a Jonas brother party like a rock star with Rudd. The laughs keep rolling with Peter McDonald’s character Sandy – bandmate of Rick. This crew gave performances with bravado showing off their musical and acting talents, which both go hand in hand.

The 80s rock music adds flare to the script of comedy-drama and tenderhearted feelings. The entire cast were in sync and remained harmonized throughout. Having the film take place in Ireland gives a unique insight to the passion of Irish musicians, treating it as a central component of their culture and social life, rather than just entertainment.

Strong emotions hit hard on the topics on plagiarism and the pressures of staying on top of the charts in the music industry. However, consequences do come with a price for unethical, conniving behavior. Rick displays his fortitude to claim what is due from Danny. But, sometimes fighting for what is just can leave a sour note and make one lose sight of what matters most – family and true friendship. Despite the turmoil between musicians and their personal lives, Power Ballad does end on a high note that left me wanting an encore.

Power Ballad is set to release on June 5, 2026, in the United States.

Directed by Will Ropp and written by Mike Scollins created a well-blended comedy featuring a lovable neurotic character Brian (Ben Wang), a high school student trying to establish social ties while trying to manage his social anxiety. To make the situation more complex, he develops a fondness for his teacher. The pressure to fit in, navigating the social maze is often faced with apprehension over not finding a comfortable place to belong. A theme that is relatable in today’s culture.

Mike Scollins, a staff writer for the tv show Late Night with Seth Meyers, developed a well scripted story that features a kaleidoscope of characters – multiethnic family, gay best friend, and common high school cliques. He handled a vulnerable subject with humility and brilliantly carried it out with good-natured humor, relaying the message that laughter can be used as a tool to overcome the daily strains of life.

Being Will Ropp’s first full feature film directing, he made an ideal selection on the backdrop that effectively anchors an honest perspective of the adolescent lifestyle in the suburbs, emphasizing a naturalistic flow of reactions. The talented cast impeccably stayed grounded to maintain focus on Brian’s struggles and hysterical awkward moments that Ropp radiantly captured in every scene.

Up-and-comer Ben Wang had an outstanding performance that brought a profoundness to his character. I was especially impressed with the emotional outbursts followed by quirky satire. Ben authentically gave Brian the underdog spirit with the unbeatable heart of a champion. The supporting cast has some big names: William H. Macy, Natalie Morales, Randall Park and Edi Patterson. However, these iconic comedians took a step back empowering the young cast to showcase their vibrant talent – Sophia Macy, Joshua Colley, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Thomas Barbusca, Jacob Moskovitz, and Sam Song Li. This energetic and affectionate group lifted the film alongside Ben Wang and made me feel like one of the family, making Brian one of my favorites by far during the SXSW 2026 festival.

Watch my interview with the cast members of Brian – Sam Song Li, Sophia Macy, and Jacob Moskovitz: