This year’s SXSW Film & TV programming has delivered once again! Offering an eclectic mix of films that brought in more thrilling and adventurous stories that provoked thought, as well as a reflection on what may come in real life (see “CIVIL WAR”). From action-packed remakes to introspective dramas, this year’s lineup truly delivered one of the festival’s best years. Coincidentally, the festival also happened during Oscar’s weekend, which added a little drama festivities.

Here are our favorite films from the festival, ranked and reviewed:

Road House

In a bold reimagining of the 1989 cult classic, Road House has been reimagined with Jake Gyllenhaal leading as a former UFC fighter turned bouncer. The film’s kinetic fight sequences are masterfully choreographed with the highly physical action of the actors, along with a little Ai. I swear you could almost feel those punches! The action blends grit and a muscular Gyllenhaal against the backdrop of a rough-and-tumble bar down in the Florida Keys. Director Doug Liman infuses the narrative with fresh energy, modernizing the story while honoring its roots. It’s a high-octane crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of the original while carving its own path.

According to several accounts, Director Doug Liman added a little drama to the film IRL, as he nearly decided to skip the premiere in protest against the studio. The film was expected to hit theaters shortly after the festival, but apparently, the executives at Prime Video have scratched the film’s theatrical release and instead sent it directly to the streaming platform. Thankfully, the film had two showings at the festival, so those who were fortunate to watch it at the Paramount Theater might be the only audience to catch it on the big screen.

Civil War

This innovative and deeply insightful film from Alex Garland takes viewers on a haunting journey through an imagined America torn apart by a modern day civil war. Merging elements of desperation and intimate human drama, Civil War deftly delivered a view of both division and survival without directly going in to today’s politics, although there are moments one could probably guess a character’s viewpoint of today’s nationalistic overtures from an extremist’s perspective. Garland delivered a compelling story elevated by breathtaking cinematography and a stand-out performance by Kirsten Dunst and fellow cast. The film is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. Catch it as it hits theaters this Summer.

The Fall Guy

The Fall Guy, directed by David Leitch, is an exhilarating action-comedy that celebrates the unsung heroes of Hollywood stunt work with charm and heart. Ryan Gosling shines as Colt Seavers, a seasoned stuntman whose life takes a bit of a nose-dive after an on-set accident. The movie blends high-octane action sequences, including car chases and A LOT of purposely over-the-top stunts, blended with comedy and a bit of emotional depth. Gosling and Emily Blunt share electric chemistry, adding layers of humor and romance to their characters. The plot is a bit uneven, but The Fall Guy is an exciting ride that should be enjoyed in theaters this summer.

Arcadian

In yet another semi-mesmerizing, post-apocalyptic tale of resilience and rediscovery, Arcadian delivers a low-budget version of something we’ve seen before. Directed by Ben Brewer, the film combines a post-apocalyptic survival tale with inventive creature designs, though it never really lands as quite of a thrilling premise as A Quiet Place. Starring Nicolas Cage as Paul, a father striving to protect his two sons from relentless, insect-like mutants, the film delivers moments of tension and visually striking monsters. The story falters with underdeveloped relationships and a lack of clarity about the larger stakes but is saved by Cage’s performance. Despite its flaws, Arcadian offers a moderately chilling glimpse of a world consumed by chaos.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel’s directorial debut is a visceral action-thriller that pulses with energy and heart. Set against the vibrant yet chaotic streets of India, Monkey Man follows an action-packed tale of revenge and redemption with Patel doing all of the ass-kicking. Patel also directed the film, with Jordan Peele as Executive Producer, as they were aiming for a gritty tale bathed in blood and fury. The film wastes no time in delivering thrills within the first thirty minutes, then eventually settles into a proper story of Patel’s character aiming to infiltrate a syndicate organization in modern-day India and the fictional city of Yatana.

Y2K

In a film stocked with late 90s nostalgia and comedy, Y2K delivers a fictional fastback, into the hilarious chaos of New Year’s Eve 1999. Directed by Kyle Mooney, this ensemble comedy captures the Y2K paranoia absolute hilarity. The cast impeccable comedic timing, and a cleverly nostalgic script make this a rather fun, laugh-out-loud experience.

Immaculate

This atmospheric horror film from Michael Mohan delivers a slow-burn story of faith and fear. Immaculate follows a young woman navigating the mysteries of an isolated convent, with eerie visuals and a sense of creeping dread building to a chilling finale. The haunting performances and unsettling atmosphere ensure this film leaves an impression on horror enthusiasts.

My Dead Friend Zoe

My Dead Friend Zoe, is directed by Kyle Hausmann-Stokes, and offers a heartfelt exploration of grief, and PTSD. The story centers on an Afghanistan war veteran haunted by the loss of her best friend Zoe (Natalie Morales) while navigating the challenges of caring for her aging grandfather, portrayed by Ed Harris. While attending court-mandated therapy sessions, she led her doctor, portrayed by Morgan Freeman. The film, steeped in the director’s personal military experience, offers touching performances and poignant moments. The story’s strong cast and compassionate lens add a meaningful tribute to the unseen struggles of American veterans.