‘Sara Bareilles: Good Grief’ Doc Timed To New Album, Chinese Box Office Hit ‘Dear You’, Thriller ‘Onslaught’ Mark Indie Holiday Weekend – Specialty Preview

As Labor Day marks a traditional close to the summer season, the indie film scene offers a diverse slate of releases that reflect a broad spectrum of storytelling styles and audience interests. Among the notable premieres is a documentary centered on singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, timed to coincide with the launch of her latest album, alongside several other independent films expanding their reach.

The documentary, directed by Josh Alexander, captures a pivotal moment in Bareilles’ career, documenting her creative process seven years after her Grammy-winning album Amidst the Chaos. This new film explores the challenges and personal growth that shaped her follow-up project, Good Grief, which emerged after a period of global upheaval and personal hardship. The film debuted with a strong reception during a special engagement that saw rapid ticket sales and expanded screenings in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles. Notable collaborators featured in the documentary include musicians and producers close to Bareilles, while executive producers include prominent figures like P!NK, Abby Wambach, and Glennon Doyle.

In the realm of genre cinema, A24 has rolled out the thriller Onslaught on nearly 2,000 screens nationwide. Directed by Adam Wingard in collaboration with Simon Barrett, the film reunites the duo responsible for cult favorites You’re Next and The Guest. The narrative follows Celeste, a retired army sniper, who must protect her community from escaped genetically enhanced super-soldiers. The ensemble cast features Adria Arjona, Rebecca Hall, and Dan Stevens, among others, appealing to fans of horror and action genres as well as combat sports enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Roadside Attractions is capitalizing on the positive momentum of the indie drama Buddy by significantly increasing its screen count following a strong initial run. This expansion signals growing confidence in the film's appeal and potential for wider audience engagement.

Another noteworthy release is Joe Swanberg’s The Sun Never Sets, which moves from a limited launch to a broader theatrical presence. Set in Alaska, the romantic drama stars Dakota Fanning, Jake Johnson, and Corey Michael Smith, and has garnered critical attention particularly for Fanning’s nuanced performance. The story explores complex emotional terrain as the protagonist navigates shifting relationships and personal uncertainty.

Animation enthusiasts have a new offering with GKids’ Cocoon — One Summer of Girlhood, an adaptation of Machiko Kyo’s manga. This feature marks the directorial debut of Yukimitsu Ina and showcases the talents of animators associated with Studio Ghibli classics. The film, set against the backdrop of war on a Japanese island, delves into themes of friendship and resilience, complemented by a score from noted composer Kensuke Ushio.

Asian cinema is represented by Well Go USA Entertainment’s release of Dear You, a family drama that has achieved remarkable success in China, grossing over $265 million. The film traces a grandson’s journey through Thailand as he uncovers poignant family stories captured through traditional letters, connecting generations across geographic and cultural divides.

In documentary form, Strand Releasing introduces Barbara Forever, a portrait of avant-garde filmmaker Barbara Hammer. Celebrated for her groundbreaking work in queer cinema, Hammer’s legacy is explored through archival footage and intimate interviews, providing insight into her artistic and personal life. The film received accolades at the Berlin Film Festival, underscoring its cultural significance.

Rounding out the weekend’s releases is American Summer, a coming-of-age narrative featuring Steve Guttenberg and Christie Brinkley. The story reflects on the nostalgia and formative experiences of youth, framed against the backdrop of familial challenges and personal growth.

Taken together, these releases illustrate a vibrant and varied independent film landscape. From music documentaries and intimate dramas to genre thrillers and animated features, the Labor Day weekend offers audiences a wide array of cinematic experiences aligned with diverse tastes and interests. Each film brings its own unique perspective, contributing to a dynamic cultural moment at the end of summer.