Get-together-ers
From the Archives
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Drama, Short Films, Sci-Fi, 01-Jul-2025
A man sabotages an intimate holiday gathering when he attempts to gift his childhood friend’s fiancé something special. Michael Rees directs “Get-together-ers,” which offers Rees’ trademark comedy style hyperbolizing idiosyncratic behavior, however this time, taking an unexpected turn into metaphysical phenomena. Phil arrives at a Christmas gift exchange. He’s nervous about the gift he brought. It isn’t wrapped, and the box is nearly open. When it’s his turn to share, the wrong girl opens it before Phil explains that the gift was actually for Veronika, a special friend, the group bursts into confusion and frustration. But Phil has something for everyone. With his small box, he demonstrates an ability to generate a new, individual item for each and every get-together-er. The box also has the power to do things to the recipients themselves. The film stands as an exciting step forward from Rees’ previous works we’ve featured. With the introduction of a new genre element, he doubles down on the humor and uncanniness of strange social interactions. -JM. Director: Michael Rees. Cast: Philip Ettinger, Veronika Slowikowska, Claire Banse, Kyle Chase, Leigh Murray, Rachel Coster, Richard Perez. Producer: Jess DiMento. Cinematographer: Bart Cortright. Camera Operator: Sarah Penson.
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