Fantastic Fest 2024: A Deep Dive into 'The Rule of Jenny Pen', 'U Are the Universe', and 'Planet B'

 


Fantastic Fest 2024 showcased a diverse array of films, Hurawatch Movies Freewith standout entries including The Rule of Jenny Pen, U Are the Universe, and Planet B. Each film offered unique narratives and thematic depth, contributing to the festival's reputation for premiering groundbreaking genre cinema.

'The Rule of Jenny Pen': A Disturbing Exploration of Power and Vulnerability

The Rule of Jenny Pen

Director: James Ashcroft
Runtime: 103 minutes
Country: New Zealand
Language: English
Premiere: World Premiere at Fantastic Fest 2024

James Ashcroft's The Rule of Jenny Pen is a psychological thriller set in a state care facility, where a retired judge, portrayed by Geoffrey Rush, confronts a sinister resident, played by John Lithgow. Lithgow's character, known for wearing a baby doll on his hand, becomes a source of terror for the protagonist, leading to a tense battle of wits and wills.

The film delves into themes of aging, power dynamics, and the human psyche. Critics have described it as "a truly upsetting movie with excellent performances" . The unsettling atmosphere and intense performances have left a lasting impression on audiences.

'U Are the Universe': Isolation and Connection in the Cosmos

U Are the Universe

Director: Pavlo Ostrikov
Country: Ukraine
Language: Ukrainian

Pavlo Ostrikov's U Are the Universe presents a poignant narrative of a lone space traveler, Andriy, portrayed by Volodymyr Kravchuk, who finds himself isolated near Jupiter after Earth's destruction. Accompanied only by a joke-telling robot, Maxim, Andriy grapples with solitude and the search for meaning.

The film, produced under challenging conditions during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, has been lauded for its emotional depth and visual storytelling. It serves as a metaphor for unexpected connections and the resilience of the human spirit .

'Planet B': A Dystopian Tale of Resistance and Surveillance

Planet B

Director: Aude Léa Rapin
Country: France
Language: French

Planet B, directed by Aude Léa Rapin, is a sci-fi thriller set in a dystopian future where France has become an oppressive fascist state. The film follows Julia, a revolutionary played by Adèle Exarchopoulos, who is imprisoned in a virtual reality designed to extract information from activists.

The narrative explores themes of surveillance, freedom, and psychological manipulation. Rapin's background in documenting real-world conflicts adds authenticity to the film's portrayal of resistance and control.

Conclusion

Fantastic Fest 2024 highlighted the versatility and depth of genre filmmaking. The Rule of Jenny Pen, U Are the Universe, and Planet B each provided thought-provoking narratives that resonated with audiences and critics alike. These films underscore the festival's commitment to showcasing innovative and impactful cinema from around the world.

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