I’ve never attended Fantastic Fest and looking back, it was one of the many reasons I even made this website. Well, maybe not exactly, but I do want to see all the unreleased stuff before everyone else.
So when I had the opportunity to cover the prestigious Austin movie festival, I did. While we couldn’t appear in person, I was still able to watch a ton of films and speak to a few guests remotely. I’m pretty sure my wife is burnt out, which leads me to our first screening.
Everyone Will Burn (2021) ★★★
Everyone Will Burn scratches the 30 Coins itch but ultimately leaves you wanting more. There are some pretty cool moments and solid performances but by the end, you're relieved when the credits finally roll.
Razzennest (2022) ★★★½
Razzennest starts off slow but finds its footing quickly. It's so clever that you'll be mad at yourself for not thinking of it first. Solid payoff, and is just as amusing as it is terrifying.
A Life On The Farm (2022) ★★★★★
A Life On The Farm is hilarious, sad, and heartwarming. Charles Carson is a treasure and everyone deserves to be introduced to this inspiring man. If you enjoyed Winnebago Man then you're gonna love this!
Unidentified Objects (2022) ★★★★
It feels familiar until you're caught off guard. Unidentified Objects isn't groundbreaking, but the ride is so charming that you can't help but fall in love. Matthew Jeffers is a star in the making.
Missing (2021) ★★★½
Missing is packed with so many twists and turns, M. Night would climax. While the tonal shifts were cute, the heavy-handed bits removed me from the mystery. Hey Siri, add Shinzo Katayama to the list of directors to watch!
Something in the Dirt (2022) ★★
I really wanted to like this more. While quite the filmmaking accomplishment, Something makes listening to your annoying conspiracy theorist cousin seem toleratable. I got it but too long and convoluted for me.
All Jacked Up and Full of Worms (2022) ★
While the last ten minutes are barrable, I'd say those are the only redeeming parts. Adding grotesque shit isn't an excuse to exclude a decent narrative. This is what the kids consider cinema? Do better.
The Third Saturday in October (2022) ★★
While the nods are cute, there isn't anything innovative. The killer isn't motivated, and ultimately the film as a whole is a chore to get through. Just because a film is slow doesn't mean it's a slow burn.
Piggy (2022) ★★★★
While Piggy was given the label of the best horror film, this is so much more than a typical scary movie. A few too many coincidences, but the performances will have you questioning your own beliefs from start to finish.
Deep Fear (2022) ★★★
Deep Fear has issues, but it's still an enjoyable experience. The ending packs a punch, so if you're thinking about moving on, stick with it. Such a fun throwback, and slightly better than As Above, So... BORING.
The Stairway to Stardom Mixtape (2022) ★★★★
No pun intended, but Stairway has some serious ups and downs. While AGFA has pieced together amazing moments, some just aren't entertaining. Regardless of the balance, this collection is special
When you consider that I was balancing a full-time job, a family as well as an impromptu Jeffrey Dahmer Netflix binge eleven films seems like quite the task. While we did catch a lot of fun and unique films, I hope to be in attendance for the event next year as those special screenings had my mouth watering.
See you next year, Tim.
Jessie Hobson