Flying Lotus, the multifaceted artist revered for his diverse talents as a musician and filmmaker, is poised to make a splash in the movie scene with his latest venture, “Ash.” This upcoming sci-fi horror film marks his return to feature filmmaking after a stint on the experimental “Kuso” and a segment in the horror anthology “V/H/S/99.” Set against the backdrop of a distant and eerie planet, “Ash” promises to be a gripping tale of survival, suspense, and psychological intrigue.
In “Ash,” the audience is introduced to Riya, played by Eiza González, who finds herself in a harrowing situation as she awakens only to discover her crew brutally murdered on a remote space station. The tension escalates with the arrival of Brion, portrayed by Aaron Paul, who seems to be her rescuer. But trust is a luxury neither Riya nor Brion can afford, as they navigate a series of terrifying events while grappling with their dark surroundings and each other.
Plot and Cast
“Ash” seems to weave a narrative that blends psychological thrills with the gritty realism of sci-fi horror, a shift from Flying Lotus’s previous experimental works. With a screenplay by Swiss writer Jonni Remmler, known for “Das Quartett,” the film seeks to take the audience on a thrilling ride through its cinematic landscape. Joining González and Paul are notable stars such as Iko Uwais, Kate Elliott, and Beulah Koale, alongside Flying Lotus himself, all of whom contribute to bringing this interstellar nightmare to life.
Production Journey
Flying Lotus, whose real name is Steven D. Bingley-Ellison, shared insights into the production journey of “Ash.” The filmmaker chose New Zealand as the shooting location, leveraging the country’s reputation for hosting prominent sci-fi and fantasy productions like “The Lord of the Rings” and projects with James Cameron. This decision signals a more substantial production budget, aiming for a contained yet imaginative visual spectacle, distinguishing it from the chaotic aesthetic of “Kuso.”
Anticipation and Release
While the film hasn’t premiered at festivals yet, hints at its atmosphere and storyline have already started to create buzz among fans. The teaser trailer, released by RLJE Films and available for viewing on YouTube, has piqued the curiosity of many, drawing comparisons to the animated series “Scavengers Reign.” The teaser evokes a sense of mystery and unexpected twists, pushing the boundaries of conventional sci-fi horror narratives.
Closing Credits
With “Ash” slated for release in select U.S. theaters in early 2025, followed by a streaming debut on Shudder, anticipation is mounting for Flying Lotus’s next big-screen endeavor. The film promises to captivate audiences with its blend of psychological depth and sci-fi thrills. Until then, fans and enthusiasts of the genre can only speculate and eagerly await official reviews and festival screenings. For those who enjoy the enigmatic allure of alien worlds infused with horror, “Ash” is one to watch in the upcoming year.
