When a group of friends discover they were scammed into a frivolous investment, they band together to recoup their money with the help of a special force agent, who happens to be the estranged father of one of their friends. The Unexpecteds is a well balanced comedy that hits every punchline with a cast that has heart. It inspires hope and redefines what it means to be a supportive father, mother and friend. Believers are not schlubs.

I had a chance to meet up with Alejandro Montoya Marín, the director and writer of the comedy – action film The Unexpecteds. Marín discussed how he came up with the storyline, and the influences that helped him develop the characters. Joining in the conversation were cast members Chelsea Rendon (Pati), John Kaler (Metal Mike), and Alejandro De Hoyos (Felipe Fuscas), who is also a producer of the film. Marín and De Hoyos also recount about how Kevin Smith got involved as an executive producer, which is truly captivating.

The Unexpecteds is available to purchase or rent on Prime Video and Apple TV.

When Dee is looking for a solution to her grief, she checks in to the Abraham’s spiritual retreat – a home to a mysterious cult that assures an exit to anyone’s sorrow. She soon realizes that this handsome charismatic cult leader, Abraham, has a twisted appetite for death and preys upon the vulnerable. Directed by Lisa Belcher and written by Lukas Hassel, House of Abraham is a brilliantly written thriller with many unexpected plot twists.

Hassel turned a sensitive topic into an artful psychological crime film that involves a sociopath who manipulates those who are susceptible to gratify his sinister intentions. Hassel’s talent can be seen in his screenwriting that does a fine depiction of narcissism, psychopathy, along with charismatic qualities that enable a cult leader to manipulate and control the followers through psychological and emotional tactics. Hassel gave a persuasive performance as the cult leader Abraham that sends frightening chills.

Director Belcher proficiently maintained a smooth narrative flow, which builds up the mystery and suspense using the background of a beautiful hill countryside home that provides a secluded and ironically peaceful environment. The opening theme song, “Lucy” by The Hawthorne Experience, definitely sets the vibes and tone for this dark story.

Lin Shaye is hauntingly outstanding, bringing out the duplicitous role of Beatrice. Shaye is always entertaining to watch, immersing the audience to a chilling presence. Natasha Henstridge is dynamic and powerful as Dee. Henstridge delivered a hard-hitting dramatic performance. The entire cast of performers are remarkable handling the complicated characters. This cohesive ensemble transmit a unified performance.

House of Abraham is now on video on demand through www.houseofabrahammovie.com

You can also watch interviews with Lisa Belcher, Lukas Hassel, Natasha Henstridge and Lin Shaye down below.

From imaginative filmmaker Luca Guadagnino and story written by Nora Garrett, After The Hunt is a psychological drama about a college philosophy professor, Alma (Julia Roberts), who is at a pivotal moment in her personal and professional life while Maggie (Ayo Edebiri), the top student, makes an accusation against the associate professor, Hank (Andrew Garfield), only for a dark secret from Alma’s own past threatens to come into the light. Meanwhile, Alma’s endearing husband Frederik (Michael Stuhlbarg) observes the tragedy from the sidelines.

Guadagnino created a convoluting film that has a slow unfolding premise with perplexing characters. The scenes are filled with sophisticated conversations about philosophical theories, that could appeal to a particular audience. There was an interesting subject about plagiarism that stirred up controversy among the faculty and students at a prestigious university. The haunting background of Alma, Maggie and Hank challenge their integrity and ethics, which is an element that barely holds an inattentive audience.

Nonetheless, After The Hunt  had compelling performances from a stellar cast. Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield were fantastic and immersed in their demanding roles. Garfield’s stage presence was intriguing; he needed to have more screen time. The same could be said about Michael Stuhlbarg, a prominent actor with immense talent that subtly fused the puzzling framework.

After The Hunt left like a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle of twisted plots, scoundrels, manipulation, and deception. Yet, it pairs well with a glass of wine and a gourmet dish while relaxing on a couch on a cold winter’s day.