<p>Warwick Wilson is the consummate host. He carefully prepares for a dinner party, the table impeccably set and the duck perfectly timed for 8:30 p.m. John Taylor is a career criminal. He's just robbed a bank and needs to get off the streets. He finds himself on Warwick's doorstep posing as a friend of a friend, new to Los Angeles, who's been mugged and lost his luggage. As the wine flows and the evening progresses, we become deeply intertwined in the lives of these two men and discover just how deceiving appearances can be. With outstanding performances by David Hyde Pierce and Clayne Crawford, cowriter/director Nick Tomnay takes us on a suspense-filled ride where nothing is as it seems. THE PERFECT HOST is a slippery psychological thriller that exposes true human nature and reveals just how far we're willing to go to satisfy our needs.</p>

<p>In this intense and emotionally charged drama directed by [c=Kelly McCready], a chance encounter at a seaside café spirals into a web of obsession and fractured identity. The story follows [c=Devlin Stark]'s character, a reserved artist grappling with past trauma, whose life is upended when they meet a magnetic but enigmatic stranger played by [c=Tatiana Wechsler]. As their connection deepens, the lines between love and manipulation blur, drawing in a close-knit circle of friends portrayed by [c=Sophie Kelly-Hedrick] and [c=Zoe Ann Ziesenitz], each carrying their own secrets and desires. The central conflict unfolds as the protagonist struggles to discern genuine affection from a carefully crafted illusion, all while the idyllic coastal setting begins to mirror the emotional turmoil within. McCready's taut screenplay weaves a claustrophobic atmosphere, exploring how far one will go to hold onto a perfect love that may not be real. With its gripping performances and a narrative that keeps viewers questioning every interaction, this 13-minute drama delivers a haunting meditation on trust and self-deception.</p>

<p>Liev Schreiber (X-Men Origins: Wolverine) and Jeanne Tripplehorn (Big Love) star in this funny, moving and perceptive exploration of romance and the challenges of marriage. On the cusp of their ninth anniversary, James and Nina seem to have the perfect marriage and ideal lives - an affluent life in Amsterdam, lucrative jobs and adoring friends. Yet when Nina discovers James's infidelity with a mutual friend of theirs after a long line of extramarital affairs, it's the final straw, shattering whatever illusions they've created about their relationship and leaving them separated. Heartbroken about their separation, a stroke of luck leads Nina to impersonate James's chatty travel agent on the phone, and he's soon pouring his heart out and unwittingly falling for his wife all over again as they discuss the uncertainty of love and the eternal misunderstanding between men and women.</p>

<p>Teenager Holly Hamilton (Hilary Duff) is tired of moving every time her single mom Jean (Heather Locklear) has another personal meltdown involving yet another second-rate guy. To distract her mother from her latest bad choice, Holly conceives the perfect plan for the perfect man ... an imaginary secret admirer who will romance Jean and boost her shaky self-esteem. When the virtual relationship takes off, Holly finds herself having to produce the suitor, borrowing her friend's charming and handsome Uncle Ben (Chris Noth) as the face behind the e-mails, notes and gifts. Holly must resort to increasingly desperate measures to keep the ruse alive and protect her mom's newfound happiness ... almost missing the real perfect man when he does come along.</p>

<p>In this Romantic Comedy, Charlie (Terrence J) is a bachelor who's convinced that relationships are dead even though his sister (Paula Patton), a therapist, tries to tell him otherwise. His best friends bet him that if he sticks to one woman for one month, he's bound to fall in love. An unconvinced Charlie takes the bet because he believes that he's immune to love... until he crosses paths with the beautiful and mysterious Eva (Cassie Ventura).</p><p>Charlie is sure that he will win the bet and prove his friends and sister wrong, so he rises to the occasion and takes on the challenge. Turning on his irresistible charm, Charlie coaxes Eva into a casual affair, but soon finds out that Eva has turned the tables on him. Unsure of what to think or how to feel, he finds himself trying to navigate in a foreign territory. Now, Charlie is left questioning whether he may actually want more than just a one-night stand. </p>

<p>Revolves around a Brooklyn group called May Mothers, a group of moms who meet up to socialize and relish a couple hours away from their babies. The evening takes a tragic turn when Winnie, the single mother of the group, learns that her 6-week-old son, Midas, has been abducted from his crib. Over the course of 13 days, three new moms go to increasingly desperate lengths to find Midas alive. In the process, damaging secrets are revealed, marriages are tested, and friendships are created and destroyed.</p>

<p>In "The Perfect Score," a group of six high school students band together and develop a plan to heist the SAT exam in order to prevent the test from unfairly defining who they'll become. Each in the group has their own set of circumstances that lead them to the conclusion that the only way to truly decide their own fate is to cheat the system. The unofficial leader of the group is Kyle, an aspiring architect who dreams of attending an Ivy League school but repeatedly scores below what is required for acceptance.</p> <p>He develops the plan with his best friend Matty, whose low SAT scores result in a rejection letter from Maryland, the university that his girlfriend attends. Anna, who desires to meet her parents' standard of excellence but is badly in need of some excitement, joins in and brings Desmond into the fold, the star basketball player who at the urging of his mother decides to forgo the NBA for college and needs to pass the SAT to get in. Providing the access inside the local educational testing headquarters is Fransesca, an anti-establishment girl who joins in the scheme for kicks. Completing the group is Roy, a loner who wants in on the action after accidentally overhearing the plan. Although the kids seemingly share nothing in common, they join together and while getting to know each other, discover themselves in the process.</p>

<p>The story of two people who begin to fall in love as the world begins to fall apart.</p><p> Susan is a scientist. Michael is a chef. He takes a break from the kitchen heat in the alleyway below her apartment; she smokes a cigarette at the window above. He calls up for a light - the first spark in their passionate affair.</p><p> But the world is about to change dramatically. As love turns Susan and Michael's lives upside down, people across the globe begin to experience strange symptoms, which first affect the emotions then the senses, one by one.</p><p> Everything changes. But people laugh, they cry, they eat and drink, they go about their daily business. They adapt, they change, they cope, they live and they love - because life must go on. And so it does.</p>

<p>In Perfect Sisters, a riveting true-crime thriller based on the notorious Toronto "Bathtub Girls" case, a pair of abused and neglected teenage girls almost get away with murder. Sisters Sandra and Beth learned early in life that they had no one to depend on but each other, but when their addict mother Linda makes plans to move the girls in with her lecherous and abusive lover, the girls' situation becomes unbearable. Seeing no other way out, Sandra and Beth recruit their classmates to help them plan their mother's murder. When the girls' guilt spins out of control and they compulsively confess their involvement to friends, rumors that they are cold-blooded killers reach the ears of the authorities.</p>

<p>Think of the hard-boiled world of film noir: the world of Dashiell Hammett's Sam Spade, a world of femme fatales, a world of shadows. Now imagine this world populated with characters from tragic Russian novels like those by Dostoevsky: tormented figures suffering through harsh circumstance. This unique world provides the foundation for the dark and vivid dreamscape of "The Perfect Sleep."</p><p>In a timeless city, a man with no name returns to the violent, brutal domain of assassins he left ten years before - back when they dubbed him The Mad Monk for his disregard for his own life and his intense devotion to one woman, Porphyria; a beautiful, luminescent woman; the girl he grew up with; the love of his life; the one thing he has ever wanted; the one thing he can never have.</p><p>There is no discernible reason for him to come back to this ruthless city, save one. She still lives here, she is in danger, and he - a man gifted in the art of killing - may be the only one who can save her. Waiting for him are deadly men who would like nothing more than to see him die a painful death. Standing at their forefront is the formidable Nikolai, the man who raised him and just might be his father. </p><p>To protect Porphyria, this unnamed man will return to a life of torment and torture. He will face off against the father figure he turned his back on so many years ago. He will revisit this existence full of people imprisoned by their desire, their history, and their very blood; a world where the only thing keeping you from happiness is yourself, the world of The Perfect Sleep.</p>

<p>Revolution Studios' sexy thriller "Perfect Stranger" asks the question: how far would you go to keep a secret? When investigative reporter Rowena Price (Halle Berry) learns that her friend's murder might be connected to powerful ad executive Harrison Hill (Bruce Willis), she goes undercover with the help of her associate, Miles Hailey (Giovanni Ribisi). Posing as Katherine, a temp at Hill's agency, and Veronica, a girl Hill flirts with online, Rowena surrounds her prey from all sides, only to discover that she isn't the only one changing identities. The closer Rowena gets to finding the truth, the more we see how far people will go to protect it.</p>

<p>In the same night that happens a blood red moon, some longtime friends reunite to dinner: the group is formed by plastic surgeon Alfonso and his wife, psychologist Eva, who are the hosts of the dinner; lawyers Antonio and his wife Ana; taxi driver Eduardo and his young and recent wife, veterinary Blanca; and finally Pepe, a former gym teacher actually unemployed, who surprisingly appears without Lucía, his recent girlfriend. Motivated by Blanca, who have some suspects about the group by the behaviors of some of them, she proposes a game where all diners leave their cell phones on the table, at the condition to say to everyone the contents of all text and voice messages. Starting like an innocent game, the progressive revelation of secrets as they appear cause a series the events each time more dramatics: Alfonso suspects that Eva has an affair, Ana thinks wrongly that Antonio is homosexual, Blanca realizes a horrible side about her marriage with Eduardo, and Pepe tries to keep hidden.</p>

<p>In this gripping psychological thriller, a young woman finds herself trapped in a web of manipulation and deceit after a seemingly innocent encounter spirals into a nightmare. Directed by [c=Alina Pasok] and written by [c=Anastasia Fedko], who also stars in the lead role, the film follows a vulnerable protagonist whose trust is exploited by a charismatic but dangerous stranger. As she struggles to reclaim her sense of reality and identity, she must navigate a world where nothing is as it seems, and everyone—including those closest to her—may have hidden agendas. With a taut, claustrophobic atmosphere, the movie explores themes of gaslighting, power dynamics, and the resilience of the human spirit. Supported by a talented cast including [c=Christopher Matthew Spencer], [c=Valeriia Volokhova], [c=Ethan Stendeback], and [c=Joseph Mika], this intense short film keeps viewers on edge from the very first frame, questioning who the true victim really is in a story where appearances are dangerously deceiving.</p>

<p>"The Perfect Wave" is the true story of Ian McCormack who grew up surfing the waters of New Zealand. Wanting to dive deeper, Ian sets out on a journey with his best friend that will change his life as they chase the perfect wave. Traveling through Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, they surf incredible breaks and adventure, looking for the force that drives the world. When Ian meets Annabel, a striking and kindred soul, he abandons his friend on a new quest of love and ecstasy. Jealousy overtakes their love. Broken by his own soul, Ian chases her to an island paradise to win her back.</p><p>One night, Ian joins some friends on a night dive for lobster and in the dark water of the reef, encounters a group of dreaded box jellyfish with venom so virulent; one sting will kill. Ian is stung five times before he knows what's happening and struggles back to shore, where he is abandoned and left without hope. At the hospital, Ian is pronounced dead shortly after his arrival and is wheeled off to the morgue.</p><p>Ian awakes finding himself out of his own body, in complete darkness in a cold and strange place. As Ian struggles with what has happened and is lifted out of the darkness on a perfect wave a light, rising to heaven at the feet of Christ, where he is forgiven, redeemed and given the choice to stay in true paradise or return to tell the world his story. Remembering his mother's love and wanting to share what he has seen, Ian chooses to return. Fifteen minutes after the doctor had pronounced him dead, he awakens in the morgue.</p>

<p>In a not too distant future, a totalitarian state secret government organization controls all aspects of life. All "Enemies of the State" are executed by a secret group of assassins, who go by a secret code-name which is known only by the state and a few others assigned to the same mission.</p><p> The best of the assassins is a code-name "Condor" - the perfect weapon of choice. However, in his latest assignment, he fails to kill the opposition leader and finds himself on the run from the very same government agency that hired him.</p>

<p>In the cutthroat world of classical music, a brilliant but troubled cellist, [c=Allison Williams], seeks out the new star pupil, [c=Logan Browning], who has taken her place at a prestigious conservatory under the tutelage of the demanding [c=Steven Weber]. What begins as a seemingly gracious reunion between the two prodigies quickly spirals into a tense and unpredictable journey, as they travel from the isolated academy to the vibrant streets of Shanghai. A single night of hedonistic freedom unleashes a series of bizarre and horrifying physical symptoms, plunging both women into a psychological nightmare where trust is shattered and reality itself seems to fracture. Directed by [c=Richard Shepard], this chilling horror-thriller masterfully blends elegant artistry with visceral dread, crafting a twisted tale of obsession, rivalry, and the terrifying price of perfection.</p>

<p>Based on the bestselling novel by Patrick Suskind, "Perfume" is a story of murder and obsession set in 18th-century France.</p><p>Jean-Baptiste Grenouille has used his unique talent for discerning the scents and smells that swirl around him to create the world's finest perfumes, but his talent masks his burden. An orphan from birth, Grenouille has always felt alone in the world and different from any other person. Determined to connect with others, Grenouille tries to capture the irresistible but elusive aroma of young womanhood, traveling far and delving deeper into the intricate science of perfume-making. As he becomes increasingly - and recklessly - passionate about his art, his obsession to create the world's most powerful fragrance takes a deadly turn.</p><p>Ben Whishaw, the young British actor who received rave reviews for his performance in "Hamlet" at the Old Vic in London, stars in the central role of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, the murderer on the hunt for the perfect scent. The film also stars Emmy and Golden Globe winner Alan Rickman ("Sense & Sensibility," the "Harry Potter" franchise), Rachel Hurd-Wood (2003's "Peter Pan") and two-time Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman ("Rain Man," "Kramer vs. Kramer").</p><p>"Perfume" was directed by Tom Tykwer, the award-winning director of "Heaven" and "Run Lola Run." Bernd Eichinger ("Downfall," "The Neverending Story," "The Name of the Rose") produced the film from a screenplay he co-wrote with Andrew Birkin ("The Name of the Rose," "Omen III: The Final Conflict") and Tykwer, based on Patrick Süskind's celebrated novel of the same name.</p>

<p>In the shadowy underbelly of Rome, a man known only as Pericle lives a brutal double life. [c=Riccardo Scamarcio] delivers a gripping performance as this enigmatic figure, a feared and respected mob enforcer by night who secretly yearns for a legitimate existence by day. Directed with raw intensity by [c=Abel Ferrara], this gritty crime drama plunges viewers into a world where violence is currency and escape seems a distant dream. As Pericle navigates the treacherous demands of his criminal family, his desperate attempt to carve out a slice of normalcy with a woman he loves creates a dangerous fissure in his carefully constructed world. The film masterfully builds a tense atmosphere of paranoia and impending doom, exploring the suffocating weight of a past that refuses to release its grip. Pericle finds himself trapped in a escalating conflict, forced to confront the monstrous persona he has cultivated while the line between his two identities begins to horrifically blur.</p>

<p>In an America grappling with one of the most complex and contentious healthcare debates of our time, "Perilous Passage: Birth in America" offers an unflinching documentary lens on the journey of childbirth. The film follows a diverse array of expectant mothers navigating the country’s fragmented maternal healthcare system, from rural clinics struggling to stay open to bustling urban hospitals. Each woman faces her own set of perilous challenges, whether it is a lack of insurance, high-risk pregnancy complications, or the difficult choice between a home birth and a hospital delivery. Through intimate and candid interviews, the documentary sheds light on the dedicated midwives, doctors, and doulas who fight to provide safe passage for both mother and child. The central conflict emerges as these families confront systemic barriers, financial strain, and deeply personal fears, all while celebrating the profound resilience required to bring new life into the world. With a tone that is both sobering and hopeful, this 96-minute exploration reveals the raw, often hidden realities behind the miracle of birth in modern America, compelling viewers to reconsider what true support for families looks like.</p>

<p>In this taut and atmospheric drama from director [c=Jenson Rutherford], a group of friends on the cusp of adulthood gather for a seemingly ordinary evening, only to find their perceptions of reality beginning to fray at the edges. The central figure, portrayed by [c=Fraser Crook], is a young man grappling with an unsettling sense that something is just beyond his grasp, a feeling that intensifies as the night wears on. Alongside him, [c=Tom Lawlan], [c=Jack Brown], [c=Amelie Upton], [c=Harry Mckenny-Cowley], [c=Sam Hulse], [c=Rollo Burkinshaw], and [c=Hattie Wood] complete the ensemble, each character bringing their own anxieties and hidden tensions to the fore. As conversations turn cryptic and familiar surroundings become alien, the group must confront the possibility that the boundaries between their inner worlds and external reality are dissolving. Blending psychological unease with a slow-burn narrative, Periphery explores themes of memory, identity, and the fragile nature of shared experience. With a runtime of just seven minutes, this compact yet potent film delivers a disorienting and thought-provoking glimpse into the cracks that can form in everyday life, leaving its audience questioning what is real and what is merely a shadow on the edge of perception.</p>

<p> Years ago on a calm, dark night, Dwayne Hopper's life was shattered when his young son Kyle was abducted from his bedroom and disappeared without a trace. Kyle was the the final victim in a string of fourteen local disappearances. Dwayne, his wife Janine and daughter Daisy were forced to abandon hope that he would one day be found.</p><p>10 years later...Dwayne remains on the police force, but his family life has crumbled around him. Janine has lost faith in her husband just as Daisy has lost faith in her parents. One fateful night, Dwayne's suspicions are aroused when he notices striking similarities between a current inmate (Perkins), and the purported culprit behind the abductions.</p><p>Upon investigation, Dwayne discovers proof of Perkins' guilt during a tense search of the suspect's basement. In a fit of rage, Dwayne kills Perkins, but unbeknownst to him, the fourteen missing victims are very much alive. During captivity, they were dehumanized and trained to kill at random. Perkins' murder ignites a wave of carnage which sweeps across the entire town, with Dwayne's own son as one of the marauding psychopaths.</p><p>The Hopper family winds up taking refuge in a barricaded police station - but no walls are able to keep pure evil from breaking through. Dwayne and his family are caught up in a terrifying struggle for survival which pits them against a horde of brainwashed, bloodthirsty, "creatures." Who will survive the night?</p>

<p>In the poignant coming-of-age drama, Perks of Being a Wallflower, directed by [c=Stephen Chbosky], viewers are immersed in the life of Charlie, a sensitive and introspective high school freshman portrayed by [c=Logan Lerman]. Struggling with the complexities of adolescence and the scars of a traumatic past, Charlie finds solace in the friendship of two step-siblings, Sam, played by [c=Emma Watson], and Patrick, brought to life by [c=Ezra Miller]. As they introduce him to the vibrant world of their social circle, Charlie navigates the trials of first love, heartbreak, and the search for identity.</p> <p>The film beautifully captures the bittersweet essence of youth, exploring themes of friendship, acceptance, and the often tumultuous journey toward self-discovery. As Charlie grapples with his inner demons and the pressure to fit in, the bond he shares with Sam and Patrick becomes a lifeline, guiding him through moments of joy and despair. With a soundtrack that resonates deeply and a narrative that balances humor with heartache, Perks of Being a Wallflower invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences of growing up and the importance of connection. This heartfelt story is a reminder that while life can be challenging, the support of friends can make all the difference.</p>

<p>In the vibrant world of "Perla," a captivating musical journey unfolds as the titular character, played by [c=Zuleyka Rivera], navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and self-discovery. Perla is a passionate and talented young woman who dreams of making her mark in the dazzling but demanding world of music. With her heart set on stardom, she faces the challenges of balancing her aspirations with the expectations of her family and community.</p> <p>Supporting her on this emotional journey is [c=Carlos Ponce], who portrays a charming mentor determined to guide Perla through the trials of the entertainment industry. Meanwhile, [c=Paz Vega] shines as a rival who embodies both the allure and the obstacles of success, sparking tension and competition that fuels Perla’s drive. As the characters navigate their intertwined paths, their relationships evolve, revealing hidden desires and vulnerabilities.</p> <p>The film is infused with a rich tapestry of musical numbers and dynamic performances, enveloping the audience in an atmosphere of hope and resilience. With each song, Perla confronts her fears and embraces her identity, leading to a crescendo of emotions that will resonate with viewers long after the final note fades. "Perla" is a celebration of dreams, perseverance, and the transformative power of music.</p>

<p>It's the early 80's in small town Virginia and "Perms" are all the rage. 13-year Aurelie dreams about getting one to finally fit in at her new school but when her clueless parents bring her to a hairdressing academy to save a few bucks, things go incredibly wrong. This is the story about adolescence, socially awkward family members and bad hair.</p>

<p>Directed by [c=Tim Allison], this chilling short film plunges viewers into a relentless cycle of psychological terror. The story follows a young woman who wakes up each morning to find that her worst nightmares have bled into reality, transforming her ordinary life into a waking hell. As the lines between sleep and consciousness blur, she becomes trapped in a desperate struggle to distinguish what is real from what is merely a phantom of her own mind. With only eight minutes to unfold, [c=Tim Allison] crafts a tightly wound atmosphere of dread and suspense, where every shadow and whisper feels like a threat. The central conflict revolves around her frantic quest to break the loop before her nightmares consume her entirely, forcing her to confront the dark secrets buried in her own psyche. Permanent Nightmare is a tense, atmospheric thriller that offers a brief but unforgettable glimpse into the fragility of sanity, leaving audiences questioning the very nature of their own reality.</p>

<p>In this taut 45-minute psychological thriller co-directed by [c=Basyma Saad] and [c=Sanja Grozdanic], "Permanent Trespass" plunges viewers into a world where boundaries blur and safety becomes an illusion. The film follows a reclusive artist who discovers that her meticulously curated sanctuary has been violated by an unseen intruder. As she grapples with the unsettling evidence of someone else's presence in her home, her grip on reality begins to fray, forcing her to question whether the threat is external or born from within her own mind. The central conflict unfolds as she races against time to uncover the truth, confronting her deepest fears and the dark corners of her past. With a claustrophobic atmosphere that intensifies with each passing moment, the movie masterfully blends elements of suspense and psychological horror, keeping audiences on edge. The protagonist's journey is one of survival and self-discovery, where every creak and shadow could signal danger or deception. "Permanent Trespass" promises a gripping, immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll, exploring themes of privacy, paranoia, and the fragility of human sanity.</p>

<p>The film focuses on Anna (Hall) and Will (Stevens), who are each other's first everything: first kiss, first love, first and only relationship. As Will is about to propose, their best friend suggests they should date other people before spending the rest of their life with each other, leading the duo on an unexpected romantic journey.</p>

Something terrible is happening in class 3A at Calmecatl Junior High. No one can leave the classroom until the guilty party is found. This is the device that gives us a glimpse of the ethics, games, esthetics and eroticism of these girl-women. It is not easy to say what the subject is, there are so many: the discovery of sexuality, discrimination, chance, drugs, maternity, traditions, betrayals, power, love. A mural of a complex reality from the point of view of twenty-something women in the skin of 14 to 15 year old girls.

<p>Michael owes money to Dublin's meanest gangster, Darren Perrier. When the debt is called in Brenda, Michael's recently "dumped" and suicidal best friend, accidentally shoots dead one of his goons. To make matters worse Michael's estranged father, Jim, arrives just in time to witness the scene. With a bounty on their heads Michael, Jim and Brenda flee to the mountains.</p><p>On the run with his eccentric father, who�s convinced he'll die the next time he sleeps, and an increasingly morose Brenda, Michael is about to lose his mind. But as the net tightens and the helter-skelter chase reaches its climax he is forced to forgive his father and confront his true feelings for Brenda. With every hard man in Dublin on their trail it looks like Michael won't make it through the next 24 hours; however, The Grim Reaper and a gang of savage dogs have a funny way of intervening.</p>

<p>The new movie Persecuted opening in July 2014 depicts evangelist John Luther as the last obstacle in the way of sweeping religious reform. When a Senator frames Luther for the murder of an innocent teenage girl, an unprecedented era of persecution is unleashed. An evangelist turned fugitive, Luther's mission brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that will threaten the entire Christian community in America.</p>

<p>"Presephone" centers on three astronauts from Colony One, a space vessel carrying 20,000 colonists from a dying Earth to the nearest star system of Alpha Centauri in the late 22nd century. The trio have been dispatched to repair a system designed to shield their new world of Proxima B -- also known as Persephone -- from constant and deadly solar flares, the outpost the only option for the survival of the species. While commanding a critical mission to the planet Proxima B, shuttle pilot Darcy (Brianna Hildebrand) goes head-to-head with engineer Tanya Baxter (Mary-Louise Parker) regarding the right course of action when they discover they may not be alone on the seemingly lifeless world.</p>

<p>Marjane Satrapi's critically acclaimed memoir, "Persepolis," comes to life in the witty and heartfelt animated feature directed by Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud.</p><p>"Persepolis" is the poignant story of a young girl coming-of-age in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. It is through the eyes of precocious and outspoken nine-year-old Marjane that we see a people's hopes dashed as fundamentalists take power - forcing the veil on women and imprisoning thousands. Clever and fearless, she outsmarts the "social guardians" and discovers punk, ABBA and Iron Maiden. Yet when her uncle is senselessly executed and as bombs fall around Tehran in the Iran/Iraq war the daily fear that permeates life in Iran is palpable.</p><p>As she gets older, Marjane's boldness causes her parents to worry over her continued safety. And so, at age fourteen, they make the difficult decision to send her to school in Austria. Vulnerable and alone in a strange land, she endures the typical ordeals of a teenager. In addition, Marjane has to combat being equated with the religious fundamentalism and extremism she fled her country to escape. Over time, she gains acceptance, and even experiences love, but after high school she finds herself alone and horribly homesick.</p><p>Though it means putting on the veil and living in a tyrannical society, Marjane decides to return to Iran to be close to her family. After a difficult period of adjustment, she enters art school and marries, all the while continuing to speak out against the hypocrisy she witnesses. At age 24, she realizes that while she is deeply Iranian, she cannot live in Iran. She then makes the heartbreaking decision to leave her homeland for France, optimistic about her future, shaped indelibly by her past.</p>

<p>As a child soldier, Behrouz (Reza Sixo Safai) miraculously survived the Iran-Iraq War to be squirreled away to the streets of Los Angeles. After two decades under the ruthless Iranian mobster Cirrus Golshiri (Parviz Sayyad), Behrouz leaves the underworld to follow his American Dream of becoming a "Real Estate Man". </p><p>But after a chance encounter involving a high-stakes poker game, he is brought back into the life he left behind and accused of stealing from his former boss. Behrouz and his Russian girlfriend Oksana (Helena Mattsson), must hunt down missing drugs as events from his past and present clash spiraling out of control. "Persian Connection" is an electric neon-noir fever dream set in the Persian opium underworld of Los Angeles.</p>

<p>During a single day in New York City, a variety of characters grapple with the mundane, the unexpected, and the larger questions permeating their lives. An investigative reporter struggles with her first day on the job, despite help from her misguided boss; a rebellious teen attempts to balance her feminist ideals with other desires; and a young man seeks to reconcile with his ex-girlfriend, even as her brother threatens revenge. Meanwhile, an avid music lover traverses the city in search of a rare record for his vinyl collection.</p>

<p>In a poignant exploration of love and loss, "Personal Effects" weaves a heartfelt narrative that connects two seemingly disparate lives. [c=Michelle Pfeiffer] stars as a grieving mother, Claire, whose world is turned upside down following the tragic death of her son. As she navigates her profound sorrow, she finds solace in unexpected places, particularly in the company of a young man named Walden, portrayed by [c=Ashton Kutcher]. Walden, a troubled soul grappling with his own demons, is on a quest for redemption and purpose after a personal tragedy.</p> <p>Their paths intersect at a support group, where their shared pain fosters an unlikely bond that transcends mere friendship. As they confront their pasts and explore the complexities of their emotions, Claire's protective instincts clash with Walden's desire for independence, creating a rich tapestry of tension and intimacy. With the wise guidance of Claire's mother, played by [c=Kathy Bates], the story delves into themes of healing and the transformative power of connection. The film balances moments of deep sorrow with glimmers of hope, creating a captivating atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has ever loved and lost. "Personal Effects" invites viewers to reflect on the intricacies of relationships and the strength found in vulnerability.</p>

<p>A fresh and distinctive take on Charles Dickens' semi-autobiographical masterpiece, "The Personal History Of David Copperfield", set in the 1840's, chronicles the life of its iconic title character (played by Dev Patel) as he navigates a chaotic world to find his elusive place within it. From his unhappy childhood to the discovery of his gift as a storyteller and writer, David's journey is by turns hilarious and tragic, but always full of life, colour and humanity.</p>

<p>In the unforgiving expanse of the early 20th century South Dakota Badlands, [c=Viola Davis] delivers a powerful performance as Rachel DuPree, a woman fighting to preserve her family's legacy and her own soul. Directed by [c=Claire McCarthy], this gripping drama follows Rachel, who years earlier traded her freedom for a future, marrying rancher Isaac DuPree, portrayed by [c=Mahershala Ali], in exchange for land. Now, as a devastating drought threatens to erase everything they have built, Rachel’s resilience is tested beyond measure. With their children, including a determined eldest daughter played by [c=Quvenzhane Wallis], facing an uncertain future, Rachel must confront the harsh truths of her marriage and the brutal realities of homesteading life. This atmospheric and emotionally charged story paints a stark portrait of sacrifice, survival, and the fierce love of a mother determined to carve out a better life against impossible odds.</p>

<p>In the haunting and atmospheric thriller [m=Personal Shopper], [c=Kristen Stewart] delivers a mesmerizing performance as Maureen, a young American in Paris working as a personal shopper for a demanding celebrity. Grieving the recent death of her twin brother, she is also a medium, desperately hoping for a sign from him as they had promised to contact each other from beyond. Her life becomes a chilling tapestry of the mundane and the supernatural, as she navigates the opulent yet hollow world of high fashion by day and explores the spectral silence of her brother's empty house by night. Directed by [c=Olivier Assayas], the film masterfully builds tension as Maureen begins receiving a series of enigmatic and threatening text messages from an unknown source, blurring the lines between a psychological breakdown and a genuine paranormal encounter. This gripping drama unfolds as a ghost story of a different kind, where the central conflict lies within Maureen's own search for meaning and connection in a world that feels increasingly alien and menacing.</p>

<p>Living with her snobby family on the brink of bankruptcy, Anne Elliot is an unconforming woman with modern sensibilities. When Fredrick Wentworth the dashing one she once sent away crashes back into her life, Anne must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.</p>

<p>Sweet but lonely Seth (Dominic Monaghan) spends his days working in an animal shelter. In a hopeless daze, he has a chance encounter with beautiful young waitress Holly (Ksenia Solo) who awakens something within him. </p><p>Obsessed, he tries everything to win her over. Time and again, she rejects him, leading him to steal her journal and make a plan: to kidnap Holly. After Seth takes Holly, she wakes up in a cage beneath the animal shelter, treated like the dogs living above her. </p><p>As Seth's lies begin to catch up to him, Holly toys with his emotions and his certainty of the situation falls apart. A bloody psychological battle begins where the line between prey and predator, victim and criminal blurs, leaving a deadly trail along the way.</p>

<p>In the unsettling short film Pet Bunny, a young woman's desperate search for connection takes a dark and surreal turn. Directed by and starring [c=Sabrina Forbes-Sinclair], the story follows her character as she becomes increasingly isolated, her reality beginning to fray at the edges. Her only perceived solace comes from an unusual new companion, but this relationship quickly proves to be far more complex and consuming than she ever anticipated. Co-starring and produced by [c=Mattie Salmon], the film crafts a tense, psychological atmosphere where the lines between care and control, reality and delusion, are blurred. As her world constricts, she is forced to confront the unsettling nature of her own needs and the terrifying price of the companionship she craves, building towards a climax that challenges both her sanity and her survival.</p>

<p>When the Creed family relocates from bustling Boston to the serene isolation of rural Maine, Dr. Louis Creed ([c=Jason Clarke]) and his wife Rachel ([c=Amy Seimetz]) hope to escape their painful memories and start fresh. Their new home, however, sits near a mysterious burial ground hidden deep in the woods, a place with unsettling powers that local neighbor Jud Crandall ([c=John Lithgow]) warns them about with grave urgency. When tragedy strikes the family, Louis is faced with an impossible choice that tests the boundaries of life and death. Directed by [c=Kevin Kolsch] and [c=Dennis Widmyer], this chilling horror adaptation of Stephen King's classic novel crafts an atmosphere of creeping dread and moral terror. As Louis succumbs to the temptation of the ancient ground, he discovers that some doors, once opened, can never be closed again, unleashing a nightmare that threatens to consume everything he holds dear. The film masterfully explores grief, guilt, and the terrifying consequences of defying nature's most sacred law.</p>

<p>In 1969, a young Jud Crandall has dreams of leaving his hometown of Ludlow, Maine behind, but soon discovers sinister secrets buried within and is forced to confront a dark family history that will forever keep him connected to Ludlow. Banding together, Jud and his childhood friends must fight an ancient evil that has gripped Ludlow since its founding, and once unearthed has the power to destroy everything in its path.</p>

<p>In the surreal and unsettling short film "Pet Shop," viewers are plunged into a bizarre reality where a peculiar shop offers more than just common animals. The story follows a lone customer, Skut, who enters this dimly lit establishment, driven by a mysterious and urgent need. As he navigates the cluttered aisles filled with strange creatures and cryptic displays, the shop's unnerving atmosphere begins to close in around him. The central conflict emerges from the unsettling transactions and the shopkeeper's enigmatic behavior, blurring the line between buyer and prey. With a runtime of just four minutes, this tense and atmospheric piece builds a palpable sense of dread, exploring themes of obsession and the unknown. Starring [c=Skut] in a compelling performance, the film masterfully uses its brief duration to craft a haunting and memorable experience that lingers long after the final frame.</p>

<p>In the sun-drenched yet shadowy corners of Mexico City, a young American named Jack, played by [c=Jack Irv], finds himself dangerously adrift. He becomes entangled with a magnetic and volatile older couple, the enigmatic art dealer Christopher, portrayed by [c=Willem Dafoe], and his alluring, unpredictable girlfriend, Isa, brought to life by [c=Camille Rowe]. Directed by [c=Olmo Schnabel], this simmering romance-thriller explores a toxic triangle of desire and manipulation. As Jack is seduced into their world of hedonistic parties and ambiguous morality, he must navigate the increasingly perilous games orchestrated by Christopher and his mysterious associates, including the menacing [c=Jordi Molla]. The line between passion and peril blurs in a tense atmosphere where every luxury hides a threat, and trust is the most dangerous currency of all.</p>

<p>From the delightfully off-kilter mind of director [c=Jared Hess] comes "Pet, The," a genre-blending adventure that stitches together comedy, action, sci-fi, and family fare into a uniquely entertaining tapestry. Produced by the acclaimed team of [c=Scott Rudin], [c=Craig Perry], and [c=Sheila Hanahan Taylor], the film springs from a script by [c=Matt Lieberman]. This 94-minute romp features a dynamic ensemble cast including [c=Pierre Dulat], [c=Andrea Edmondson], [c=Summer Nguyen], [c=Lydia McLane], [c=Steven Wollenberg], and [c=Magi Avila], who are thrust into an extraordinary situation that defies all earthly expectations. While the specifics of their escapade remain a thrilling surprise, the film promises a heart-pounding and hilarious journey where the ordinary collides with the inexplicable, exploring the bonds of family and friendship in the face of the utterly bizarre.</p>

<p>Based on the second gothic novel of the iconic V.C. Andrews series about the Dollanganger family, the film begins ten years after the siblings have escaped the attic where their mother Corrine (Heather Graham, "Drugstore Cowboy") and grandmother Olivia (Ellen Burstyn, "Political Animals") kept them locked away for more than two years.</p><p>A decade after Cathy (Rose McIver, "Masters of Sex," "Once Upon a Time"), Christopher (Wyatt Nash, "Pretty Little Liars") and Carrie (Bailey Buntain, "Bunheads") escaped from their grandparents' attic at Foxworth Hall, "Petals on the Wind" continues to follow the twisted plight of the family as they attempt to put their sordid past behind them, but soon discover certain secrets can't be left behind. When Cathy finds herself in an abusive relationship with a fellow dancer, Julian (Will Kemp, "90210"), Christopher and Cathy are forced to face the forbidden feelings they developed for one another while coming of age during captivity. But when tragedy strikes the Dollangangers once again, Cathy returns to Foxworth Hall to confront her grandmother and seek revenge on her mother with a plan to seduce her husband Bart (Dylan Bruce, "Orphan Black"). When Christopher runs to Cathy's side, the two are determined to start over again - together.</p>

<p>The comedy focuses on the second worst day of Pete's life, when an unimaginable, foul-mouthed friend storms into his world to take him and the love of his life on an adventurous road trip.</p>

<p>Comedian [c=Pete Holmes] takes the stage in this heartfelt and hilarious stand-up special that showcases his signature blend of childlike wonder and philosophical musings. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and towering presence, Holmes delivers a performance that lives up to its playful title, exploring the absurdities of adult life through the lens of someone who refuses to let go of his inner child.</p> <p>Throughout the special, Holmes weaves together personal anecdotes about marriage, spirituality, and his journey through the entertainment industry with his trademark physical comedy and unexpectedly profound observations. His material ranges from silly impressions and sound effects to deeper reflections on finding joy in everyday moments, creating a unique comedic experience that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.</p> <p>The performance captures Holmes at his most confident and polished, demonstrating why he has become one of comedy's most beloved voices. His ability to find humor in vulnerability and turn embarrassing moments into triumphant punchlines creates an atmosphere of pure joy that radiates throughout the venue. This special offers both longtime fans and newcomers a perfect introduction to Holmes' distinctive brand of comedy that celebrates the beauty of being unabashedly silly in a world that often takes itself too seriously.</p>

<p>KC (Peter Dinklage), a former screenwriter turned downtrodden East Coast Laundromat owner, finds himself back in Los Angeles when his dog Buddha is kidnapped by loan sharks. KC reaches out to his friend Jack (Mark Boone Junior), who promises to front the $10,000 "dog ransom if KC comes to L.A. to attend the funeral of their late friend Pete Smalls (Tim Roth), a famous Hollywood director. Once in California, KC quickly surmises that something is rotten in the city of dreams-and it might not be Pete's corpse (which is nowhere to be found). Same goes for the $10 grand Jack promised him, which leads the two buddies trying to "cash in" on the rights to Pete Small's current, momentarily unfinished film. Strange situations and crazy characters abound as KC & Jack carry out their misadventures. From dealings with idiot producers (Steve Buscemi, Michael Lerner) and the Armenian mob (headed by Seymour Cassel), to romancing with a beautiful French editor (Theresa Wayman) and conducting a lab heist-in pizza-delivery panda costumes. KC faces these obstacles and more, hoping to retrieve his beloved canine, all while coming to terms with the death of Smalls-who screwed him in a business deal, and still considers him his best friend.</p>

<p>At fourteen, Pete Kidder (Gordon) is sick of being the middle child in his family, always overlooked by his parents (Parker and Roberts). Unlike his brothers, jock Jake (Wesley Morgan, "The Rocker") and bookworm Kenny, (Peter DaCunha, "A Dark Truth), Pete hasn't yet developed a distinct personality that sets him apart, and he often feels left out. With the kids' grumpy grandfather (Dern) unexpectedly in town for Christmas, the pressure is on to make the day as great as Grandpa remembers with his late wife, but the holiday is filled with disastrous moments, including a toppling Christmas tree and a bout with food poisoning. Just when things can't get any worse, Pete wakes up the next day and realizes he's reliving December 25th all over again. Stuck repeating the day over and over, Pete panics, but slowly realizes, with the help of his new friend and next door neighbor, Katie (Madison), that he can use his unique gift for good and give this Christmas day the do-over it deserves.</p>