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Ash (2025): A Haunting Descent into Sci-Fi Horror

  In the vast expanse of cinematic space horror, Ash (2025) emerges as a distinctive entry, blending psychological terror with sci-fi elements. Directed by Flying Lotus (Steven Ellison), known for his avant-garde musical ventures and the 2017 film Kuso , this film offers a chilling narrative set against the backdrop of an alien planet. Plot Overview Ash follows Riya Ortiz (Eiza González), who awakens on a desolate planet to find her crew brutally murdered. Struggling with amnesia and surrounded by haunting visions, Riya's reality is further disrupted by the arrival of Brion Cargyle (Aaron Paul), a man claiming to be her rescuer. As trust becomes a scarce commodity, the duo navigates a maze of psychological and physical horrors, questioning each other's motives and their own perceptions. SoapCentral +8 Wikipedia +8 Movie Insider +8 Cast & Crew Eiza González as Riya Ortiz Aaron Paul as Brion Cargyle Iko Uwais , Beulah Koale , and Kate Elliott in supporting...
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Ash (2025): A Haunting Descent into Sci-Fi Horror

 


In the vast expanse of cinematic space horror, Ash (2025) emerges as a distinctive entry, blending psychological terror with sci-fi elements. Directed by Flying Lotus (Steven Ellison), known for his avant-garde musical ventures and the 2017 film Kuso, this film offers a chilling narrative set against the backdrop of an alien planet.

Plot Overview

Ash follows Riya Ortiz (Eiza González), who awakens on a desolate planet to find her crew brutally murdered. Struggling with amnesia and surrounded by haunting visions, Riya's reality is further disrupted by the arrival of Brion Cargyle (Aaron Paul), a man claiming to be her rescuer. As trust becomes a scarce commodity, the duo navigates a maze of psychological and physical horrors, questioning each other's motives and their own perceptions. SoapCentral+8Wikipedia+8Movie Insider+8

Cast & Crew

  • Eiza González as Riya Ortiz

  • Aaron Paul as Brion Cargyle

  • Iko Uwais, Beulah Koale, and Kate Elliott in supporting roles

Flying Lotus not only directed but also composed the film's atmospheric score, enhancing the film's eerie ambiance. Roger Ebert+7Wikipedia+7SoapCentral+7

Production Insights

Shot in New Zealand within a repurposed door manufacturing facility, Ash showcases innovative filmmaking on a modest budget. Flying Lotus utilized YouTube tutorials to master CGI techniques, while miniatures crafted by Adam Makarenko added tangible depth to the film's visuals. The climactic fight scene draws inspiration from the Resident Evil franchise, blending visceral action with psychological tension. Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

Critical Reception

Premiering at SXSW on March 11, 2025, and released theatrically on March 21, Ash garnered a spectrum of reviews. Critics lauded its atmospheric tension and visual creativity, though some noted a convoluted narrative.Wikipedia

  • Zachary Lee of RogerEbert.com awarded it three out of four stars, stating, "Ash may not reinvent the sci-fi horror genre, but Flying Lotus knows when to subvert tropes and when to lean into them." Wikipedia+1Roger Ebert+1

  • Screen Rant highlighted the film's "haunting sci-fi thriller" elements but pointed out its "disjointed narrative" and "underdeveloped characters." Screen Rant

Box Office & Distribution

Despite its creative ambition, Ash faced challenges at the box office, grossing approximately $1.1 million. However, its availability on streaming platforms like Shudder and Amazon Prime Video has expanded its audience reach. WikipediaPitchfork

Final Thoughts

Ash stands as a testament to indie filmmaking's potential to push genre boundaries. While it may not cater to mainstream tastes, its unique blend of psychological horror and sci-fi elements offers a compelling experience for genre enthusiasts. For those seeking a film that challenges perceptions and delves into the darker facets of human psyche amidst extraterrestrial settings, Ash is a journey worth undertaking.



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