“The White Lotus” is an “anti-murder mystery,” choosing to spotlight the self-destructive journey building up to an inevitable death in the finale, all while attempting to deliver social satire and commentary. At the same time, this more pessimistic narrative forces the audience to watch and theorize with eagerness.

“Mickey 17” appears primed to weave its futuristic premise with clever commentary on the present. Ultimately, it fails as a nuanced and profound critique of the contemporary political climate because its themes are bogged down by an unfocused narrative and a hollow message.

With a dynamic, dimensional cast of characters and a somehow even more engrossing plot line throughout the show, “Severance” does everything at a high level. Even if it ends up not having the answers to all the questions it poses, it is well worth the ride. Me? I’m in it for the long haul. 

On Sept. 13 and 14, the WashU Film Club hosted its inaugural Film Festival, where filmmakers showcased submitted short films. Audience members flocked to Simon Hall and Brown Hall, where WashU and non-WashU students alike presented narrative, documentary, and experimental films to an expectant crowd and judges. Student filmmakers were eligible to win six awards in the following categories.