#drafthouse films

As residents in her village begin to suffer horrific deaths, María José is accused of summoning an evil that has been whispered as local legend for generations and must confront her own past or risk fulfilling a prophecy that would bring about the end of the world.

Directed and written by David Hebrero, co-written by Javier Kirán and starring Macarena Gómez, Rodolfo Sancho, Ana Milán, Rubén Ochandiano, Germán Torres, Ella Kweku, Raquel Lobelos, with Fernando Cayo and Saturnino García, and introducing Sofía García.

EVERYONE WILL BURN in theaters starting December 1st (NYC, LA, Austin) and on digital platforms December 5th, 2023, from Drafthouse Films.

SYNOPSIS:  When we encounter Günter he is an actor in a new play that is in rehearsals, and he clearly has a variety of issues with his fellow thespians. As the tale evolves we learn that  Günter was raised by foster parents after being found abandoned in the woods with no memory as a child. As Günter ventures out for breakfast groceries a man approaches him on the street and whispers a strange word in his ear. He soon begins to experience visions from his fractured past that reveal a dark secret, threatening what he thinks he knows about his life and the very nature of his existence.

REVIEW: Filmmaker Alex van Warmerdam’s NR. 10 is a twisted tale with hints of a Terry Gilliam film, with less art direction and satire. It’s a captivating film that has the viewer wondering where exactly it is going and ends in a jaw dropping climax.

I relish the way the narrative is a layered presentation of elements. Some of them are trivial in the grand scheme of the tale, but along the way offer crumbs as to the central theme of the film. There are times when it offers social commentary on daily life, and it feels like there is a strange connection between Günter and the play he is rehearsing. Just when the viewer feels they are getting a handle on the story it adds another element that leaves one dazed and confused. Günter is an engaging character that supports the viewer’s investment in the film. The other characters have their moments, some drop away, and others take on more significant roles. When all is said and done, the film’s shocking climax left this viewer pondering the larger implications. It’s truly a thought provoking tale on several levels.

Actor Tom Dewispelaere plays Günter. His performance takes the viewer on a compelling journey as he moves through mystery to enlightenment. He presents a likable character, oppressed by daily life until the question of his past arises. His emotions begin to emerge and he transforms. The character and performance engage the viewer to take them for the ride. There are several other alluring performances, actress Frieda Barnhard as Lizzy, actor Gene Bervoets, and the rest of the cast deliver a memorable ensemble performance.

The film demonstrates solid production values. The majority of the film appears to be a regular drama, all the visual effects left for the last act. The cinematography is a realistic blend of wintery tones and a waking dream. The framing and editing provides this slight “who done it” feel. Warmerdam’ score is used sparingly as accentuates transition between scenes and adds depth as the film shifts into its final moments.

There is a moment in Alex van Warmerdam’s NR. 10 where characters have a logical conversation about religion. It is an argument that I can’t recall having been framed that way and my reaction was similar to the character in the scene. In the larger scheme of things the film seems to embrace Dadaism as it challenges accepted norms. It is one of those rare films that requires you to mull it over after viewing and possibly alter one's perception of things. NR. 10 a contemporary mind trip.

CAST: Tom Dewispelaere, Frieda Barnhard, Pierre Bokma, Hans Kesting, Anniek Pheifer, Jan Bijvoet, Dirk Böhling, Mandela Wee Wee, Richard Gonlag and Gene Bervoets. CREW: Director/Screenplay/Score - Alex van Warmerdam; Producer - Marc van Warmerdam; Cinematographer - Tom Erisman; Editor - Job ter Burg; Production Designer - Geert Paredis; Costume Designer - Catherine van Bree; Visual Effects - Planet X; OFFICIAL: drafthousefilms.com FACEBOOK: n.a. TWITTER: n.a. TRAILER: https://youtu.be/TkG61RfBGjg RELEASE DATE: In Theaters December 2nd, Digital Release On December 9th, 2022.

**Until we can all head back into the theaters our “COVID Reel Value” will be similar to how you rate a film on digital platforms - 👍 (Like), 👌 (It’s just okay),  or 👎 (Dislike)