Ash Movie Review: Is This Slow-Burn Sci-fi Horror Worth the Watch?
Ash (2025): The Indie Sci-Fi Horror Film That May Tickle Your Fancy
Ash is an indie sci-fi horror film that blends artistic grit with creative filmmaking on a budget. If you’re a fan of ’80s-style cinema, psychedelic grindhouse aesthetics, and mind-bending storytelling, this film is a must-watch. Featuring an award-worthy performance from Eiza González, Ash delivers an immersive experience that may be too grounded for mainstream award circuits despite taking place entirely in space.
@ellemagazine @Aaron Paul should’ve let this one go to voicemail—@Eiza González is crazy good at PhoningItIn. Watch to see the actress prank her #Ash co-star, and stay tuned for more. 👀
A Slow-Burn Thriller in Space
The story follows Riya (Eiza González), who awakens on a distant planet to discover that the crew of her space station has been brutally murdered. As she struggles to piece together fragments of her memory, a man named Brion (Aaron Paul) arrives, claiming to be her rescuer. However, their encounter quickly turns into a psychological and physical nightmare, forcing them to question whether they can trust each other to survive.
With influences from Ridley Scott’s Alien and a visual and musical aesthetic reminiscent of the Safdie Brothers, Ash immerses viewers in a haunting and atmospheric world. González delivers a standout performance, carrying much of the film solo, while the supporting cast—including Aaron Paul, Iko Uwais, Beulah Koale, Kate Elliott, and even director Flying Lotus—add depth to the eerie narrative.
Behind the Scenes: Flying Lotus Directs
Directed by renowned musician and Brainfeeder label founder Flying Lotus, Ash showcases his transition into filmmaking with a bold and distinctive style. In an AMC Q&A at The Grove, Aaron Paul revealed that after reading the script, he personally reached out to his friend Eiza González, encouraging her to take on the role of Riya and collaborate opposite with him onscreen. The result? A gripping performance that elevates the film’s tension and intrigue.
Produced by XYZ Films (known for the noteworthy film BlackBerry), Ash is a film crafted for fans of extraterrestrial horror, psychological thrillers, and immersive sci-fi storytelling. Following its worldwide premiere at SXSW, the film has now hit theaters nationwide, distributed by RLJE Films and Shudder.
@fandango Aaron Paul shares what it was like working with long-time friend Eiza González on their new film Ash, which is now playing in theaters! Get your tickets at the link in bio. #movietok #filmtok #aaronpaul #eizagonzalez
A Synth-Driven Soundscape: The Ash Soundtrack
Adding to the film’s haunting atmosphere is the Ash (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Flying Lotus. The score, available digitally via Milan Records, draws inspiration from electronic music pioneers such as John Carpenter and Vangelis. With layered synths, industrial sci-fi textures, and pulsating rhythms, the soundtrack fully immerses listeners into the alien world of Ash.
Featured Tracks and Collaborations
The soundtrack features the lead single “It’s Out There”, a slow-burning electronic composition that heightens the film’s sense of dread. Other highlights include “OXYGENE”, a darkly propulsive opener, and “CONFRONTED”, an unsettling industrial cue featuring experimental producer Little Snake. The album also includes “WHAT’S WRONG PEACH?”, a lush orchestral piece by Kuedo featuring violinist Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, and “OBEY”, a haunting end-credits track featuring singer-songwriter Niki Randa.
Flying Lotus shared his experience composing the score: “Working on the score was both inspiring and challenging. I spent most of my time writing it during post-production in New Zealand, running between color grading sessions and composing in my little cave with just my laptop and controller. I drew inspiration from synth-based composers like Akira Yamaoka, Angelo Badalamenti, and Vangelis, aiming for a distinctive sound that felt fresh and unique.”
Final Thoughts
With its captivating visuals, eerie score, and outstanding performances—especially from Eiza González—Ash solidifies itself as an indie gem in the sci-fi horror genre. Flying Lotus’s direction and soundtrack further elevate the film, making it an essential watch for fans of psychological thrillers and cosmic horror.
Catch Ash in theaters now and experience the tension, mystery, and artistry of this one-of-a-kind sci-fi thriller.
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Listen to the Soundtrack
SOUNDTRACK TO FLYING LOTUS’ VISIONARY NEW DIRECTORIAL EFFORT
LISTEN TO “IT’S OUT THERE” ACROSS ALL DSP’S NOW