Underland is a mesmerizing and exhilarating documentary about the wonders and mysteries in caves, storm drains and laboratories located beneath the Earth's surface. Director Robert Petit has made a film that's unlike anything you've seen before. What ensues is an often breathtaking experience that gets trippy at times and will make you feel like you're watching 2001: A Space Odyssey. Petit keeps the film focused on the images beneath the surface which speak louder than words, although the soothing voice of Sandra Hüller's narration does guide the audience a little on their journey. Underland remains focused on the images and sounds underground without any backstories of the scientists. It's best to watch this one-of-a-kind documentary on the big screen, especially in IMAX where it would feel even more immersive. At a running time of 1 hour and 19 minutes, Underland is currently seeking distribution.
Number of times I checked my watch: 1
      Videoheaven is a documentary about the history of video stores. Director Alex Ross Perry tells the history through clips from a wide variety of films from Walking and Talking to Ghost World that feature scenes with video stores. The archivist clearly worked very hard to find and ensemble the film clips. Movie buffs will be initially engaged by trying to predict which film the next clip will be from or if and when a clip of a film they're expecting to be included will show up. Beyond a trip down memory lane for those who grew up renting movies at video stores, Videoheaven doesn't offer much to the audience. It's ultimately a tedious and exhausting endurance that doesn't justify its nearly 3-hour running time. At 2 hours and 53 minutes, Video Heaven opens on July 2nd, 2025 at IFC Center via Cinema Conservancy.
Number of times I checked my watch: 4
Main Page
Film Festivals
______________________________________________________