Gothamite Film Fest 2024-2025
Surge of Power: Where There’s Smoke
Film Review: Surge of Power: Where There’s Smoke
Directed by Vincent J. Roth, Jeff Rector, Mario DeAngelis
The latest installment in the *Surge of Power* series, *Where There’s Smoke*, delivers yet another action-packed, star-studded experience for superhero fans. The film brings together a cast of beloved faces from the worlds of science fiction and superhero lore, offering both spectacle and nostalgia for those who love to see iconic characters from past franchises join forces.
In this chapter, Surge, our main hero, teams up with The Smoke, played by former pro wrestler Eric Moran, to unravel a conspiracy led by the villainous organization known as The Council. Along the way, they face off against the mysterious and tragic figure, Falling Apple, a woman driven by a need for vengeance due to her troubled past. As the plot unravels, Surge receives guidance from Omen, whose role is shared by the late Nichelle Nichols (best known for her portrayal of Lt. Uhura in *Star Trek*) and Robert Picardo (The Doctor from *Star Trek: Voyager*). This gives the film a lovely tribute to sci-fi fans who remember these legends.
The ensemble cast further impresses with appearances from Bruce Vilanch as Janus, Shannon Farnon voicing MAVIS (the Wonder Woman of the *Super Friends* cartoon), and Joseph Culp as Spade, the same role he played in the 1996 *Fantastic Four* film. Newcomers such as Tim Russ (Tuvok from *Star Trek: Voyager*), Sam J. Jones (Flash Gordon), and Stephanie Ahn (Falling Apple) bring fresh energy to the expanding *Surge of Power* universe, ensuring a wide range of characters and personalities that can appeal to any viewer.
The film’s dynamic focus is on character-driven moments as much as it is on the action. At its core, *Where There’s Smoke* isn’t just about superhero battles and outlandish powers; it’s about people working together to overcome the odds and heal from the scars of their past. The troubled backstory of Falling Apple, shaped by trauma and loss, provides a gripping emotional anchor amidst the chaos of superhero antics.
The direction, led by Roth, Rector, and DeAngelis, allows the balance of humor, action, and heartfelt moments to shine. There’s an undeniable charm in how they infuse each scene with lighthearted fun while weaving in messages of hope and resilience. The film thrives in its celebration of both the genre and the heroes that make it unforgettable.
What *Where There’s Smoke* does particularly well is its ability to entertain without taking itself too seriously. It’s a throwback to the campy fun of classic superhero TV shows and movies, while still offering enough modern-day thrills to keep the audience invested. It’s a film made for fans of the genre and those who appreciate the playful side of superhero storytelling.
In conclusion, *Surge of Power: Where There’s Smoke* continues the franchise's legacy of blending nostalgia with fresh faces and compelling storylines. The film is an enjoyable ride for fans of both the superhero and sci-fi genres, thanks to its cast of beloved stars, engaging narrative, and genuine heart. The franchise is proving that there’s still much more to explore in the *Surge of Power* universe, and *Where There’s Smoke* sets the stage for even more exciting adventures ahead.
Gothamite Film Fest 2024-2025
BALDY The Film
Film Review: Baldy The Film
Directed by Eddie Griffith | Written by Melvin Taylor II
In *Baldy*, a refreshingly heartfelt and sharply funny dramedy short, filmmaker Melvin Taylor II turns a deeply personal crisis into a universally resonant exploration of identity, masculinity, and self-acceptance. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, the film follows Travis—a charismatic 29-year-old man whose youthful confidence takes a hit when his hairline begins a slow but steady retreat.
While hair loss might seem like an unlikely foundation for compelling drama, *Baldy* deftly proves otherwise. With sensitivity and wit, it presents Travis’s journey not as a shallow vanity crisis, but as a poignant reckoning with aging, vulnerability, and societal expectations—especially for Black men whose appearances are often scrutinized through the lens of cultural and generational identity.
Melvin Taylor II’s performance as Travis is endearing and deeply grounded. He brings both comedic timing and emotional nuance to a character whose spiraling self-consciousness often borders on the absurd—but never loses our empathy. Whether he’s navigating awkward barbershop banter with the elusive Reggie (played hilariously by Saint Aubyn) or dodging public hat removals like covert ops, Travis’s journey is painted with charm and sincerity.
The film benefits immensely from its ensemble cast. Milbelynn Soto’s Mariah brings warmth and balance, while Sam Deleon’s Brian and Vivek Netrakanti’s Vivek offer the kind of well-meaning roast that only true friends can give. There’s a distinct camaraderie among the cast that adds richness to even the most casual scenes—moments of joy, tension, and healing that reflect the way men, particularly Black men, often navigate insecurity through humor, banter, and unspoken support.
Director Eddie Griffith’s vision finds strength in intimacy and relatability. He avoids melodrama and instead leans into naturalistic storytelling, punctuated with surreal, comedic visual flourishes that reflect Travis’s internal panic. The cinematography by Erin Trout is energetic yet tender, reflecting the duality of the city’s bustle and Travis’s inner stillness. Trout’s lens moves fluidly through barbershops, brownstones, and late-night stoops, visually grounding the story in a community that feels lived-in and real.
What sets 'Baldy' apart is its ability to shift the lens on a “small” problem—hair loss—and reveal the very large emotional terrain it covers. For men, especially young men of color, hairlines aren’t just aesthetic. They’re tied to perceptions of youth, desirability, control, and masculinity. Taylor’s script smartly taps into this often-unspoken vulnerability while encouraging viewers to laugh with, not at, the struggle.
The film’s crowdfunded, strike-era origins add another layer of meaning. Created during a time when Hollywood was largely on pause, *Baldy* is an act of creative resistance. It’s a testament to what happens when artists take the reins and tell their own stories—unvarnished, specific, and joyful in their authenticity.
'Baldy' is a sharp, soulful, and timely short film that unpacks the quiet chaos of change with a perfect blend of humor and heart. Anchored by a stellar lead performance and a strong creative vision, it reminds us that sometimes the road to self-love starts with removing your hat—and maybe a little pride.