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.

Based on the true story of Jeffrey Manchester (Channing Tatum), an Army veteran and struggling father goes on a crime spree by cutting holes in roofs of McDonald’s restaurants, which earned him the nickname: Roofman. After escaping prison, he goes into hiding inside a Toys “R” Us store, laying low undetected for six months. But when he falls for Leigh (Kirsten Dunst), a divorced mom with two daughters, his double life begins to unravel. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

Roofman is an astonishing comedy, crime directed by Derek Cianfrance and written with Kirt Gunn detailing the key events in Jeffrey Manchester’s ordeal that occurred in the late 90s through early 2000s. It was a quality effort from Cianfrance in recreating the time era with the Toys “R” Us store’s interior and including a defining soundtrack that is integral to the overall culture. Tatum narrated the film that provides a depiction of Jeff’s intentions and result of the strategic actions of a clever, yet dumb man who is just trying to be a great father and good man overall.

Channing Tatum raised the roof with his performance, acting alongside Kirsten Dunst. Their pairing was dynamic as they expressed multiple perceptions complementing each other well on screen. Tatum nailed his charm, wittiness, and poured out the heartwarming and heartbreaking emotions. Peter Dinklage was ideal, adding that special humorous touch as the role of the oppressive store manager, Mitch. The special cameo from Uzo Aduba (Orange Is the New Black) as Elieen, the congregation member, was another great aspect to the film, contributing that loving energy… For those Magic Mike fanatics, Tatum did not forget about you, there is a gratifying scene to satisfy your guilty pleasure.

Although Roofman is both comical and saddening, the post-credits give a reminder that Jeff Manchester is still doing time for the stunts he pulled off 20 years ago. Ironically, from the actual archived footage, the real-life people who knew Jeff had nothing but compliments. This film is entertaining indeed, it’s a watch and learn.

Roofman in theaters October 10, 2025.