Universal Pictures has unveiled the UK trailer for the gripping psychological thriller, Hallow Road, directed by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Babak Anvari. Slated for release in UK cinemas on May 16, 2025, the film stars Oscar nominee Rosamund Pike and Emmy-winner Matthew Rhys, who portray a frantic couple racing against time to save their daughter.
The story unfolds when two parents receive a distressing late-night call from their teenage daughter, Alice, played by Megan McDonnell. The call reveals that she has just accidentally hit a pedestrian. In a panic, the parents jump into their car, racing through the night to reach her before anyone else discovers the scene. However, as they drive deeper into the night, unsettling revelations begin to surface, threatening to tear the family apart.
Hallow Road has already garnered significant attention after its premiere at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival, where it received rave reviews and boasts an impressive 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised the film for its psychological intensity and the weighty questions it raises. One review highlighted the film's minimalist approach, stating, "The filmmaker’s minimalist approach serves a dual purpose here, palpably capturing the psychological intensity of its nightmarish scenario and weighty questions while honoring and modernizing the ancient oral traditions tied to its specific brand of horror."
Babak Anvari, known for his previous works such as Under the Shadow and I Came By, directs Hallow Road with a focus on the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by the characters. The screenplay is penned by William Gillies, who has crafted a narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
As the parents drive through the darkened streets, the tension escalates, creating a gripping atmosphere that is both suspenseful and thought-provoking. The film is described as an absorbing piece of cinema that lingers in the viewer's mind long after the credits roll.
In addition to the thrilling narrative, Hallow Road also explores themes of family dynamics and the consequences of choices made in moments of crisis. As the parents navigate their way to their daughter, they are forced to confront their own fears and the potential fallout of their daughter's actions.
Alongside Pike and Rhys, the film features a strong supporting cast, including Megan McDonnell, who plays the pivotal role of Alice. The film's unique premise and character-driven storytelling are expected to resonate with audiences, making it a must-see this spring.
In a separate but equally intriguing release, director Joel Potrykus's new film Vulcanizadora is also making waves in the film festival circuit. After premiering at Tribeca last summer, this heavy metal genre-bender is set to captivate audiences with its unconventional narrative.
Vulcanizadora follows two friends as they trudge through a Michigan forest, intending to fulfill a disturbing pact. However, their plans take a shocking turn, leading to haunting consequences that cannot be ignored. The film revisits characters introduced in Potrykus’s earlier work, Buzzard, with actors Joshua Burge and Potrykus himself reprising their roles.
Reviewers have described Vulcanizadora as a heavy metal comedy that deftly shifts into a poignant existential drama. One critic noted, "Potrykus’s latest begins as a darkly funny heavy metal comedy that deftly shifts into a poignant existential drama, stitched together by a shocking act that toe-dips ever so briefly into horror." This film promises to explore deeper themes through its unique blend of humor and darkness.
Both Hallow Road and Vulcanizadora showcase the diverse storytelling approaches in contemporary cinema, with each film offering a distinct viewing experience. As audiences eagerly await their respective releases, the anticipation is palpable, highlighting the vibrant landscape of modern filmmaking.
With the film industry continually evolving, these upcoming releases reflect a growing trend toward psychological thrillers and genre-bending narratives that challenge traditional storytelling. As viewers seek more complex and engaging content, films like Hallow Road and Vulcanizadora are poised to meet that demand.
As the release dates draw closer, fans of both psychological thrillers and innovative cinema should mark their calendars for May 16, 2025, when Hallow Road hits UK theaters. Meanwhile, Vulcanizadora promises to offer a unique cinematic experience that is not to be missed.
In conclusion, this spring is shaping up to be an exciting time for cinema, with thrilling narratives and compelling performances that are sure to captivate audiences. Whether it's the heart-pounding suspense of Hallow Road or the genre-defying journey of Vulcanizadora, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.
