Flying Lotus, the genre-defying musician and filmmaker, is back with his latest cinematic endeavor, Ash. This sci-fi horror film marks his first feature since 2017's Kuso, stepping away from the abstract and experimental approach to deliver a more “contained” narrative. The first look teaser sets a haunting tone, revealing a bleak and dangerous alien world where Riya, played by Eiza González, awakens to find her space station crew slaughtered. As she attempts to uncover the gruesome mystery, the arrival of Brion (Aaron Paul) brings about a harrowing test of trust and survival.
Shot in New Zealand, Ash benefits from the expertise of crews who've worked on renowned sci-fi and fantasy projects, including Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings. This shift to a high-production value setting is palpable in the teaser, with stunning visuals and a sense of isolation that evokes a blend of Alien and Scavengers Reign.
The film also features an intriguing cast lineup, including Iko Uwais, Kate Elliott, Beulah Koale, and Flying Lotus himself. The screenplay is crafted by Swiss writer Jonni Remmler, known for Das Quartett. While Ash hasn't premiered at festivals yet, anticipation is building, especially with RLJE Films announcing a limited theatrical release in early 2025 before the film hits the streaming platform Shudder.
The first look at Ash suggests a gripping blend of psychological tension and visceral horror. Flying Lotus' transition to a more narrative-focused style appears promising, and with a talented cast and stunning visuals, the film could appeal to both horror aficionados and sci-fi enthusiasts. The atmosphere feels genuinely unsettling, making this a film to watch out for.
What do you think makes a sci-fi horror film truly memorable? Is it the story, visuals, or something else entirely?
