Imagine grief chasing you across a scorching desert, where every step tests not just your body, but your very soul—sounds like the ultimate psychological battle, right? That's the gripping premise drawing us into the new thriller Ultra, and trust me, you won't want to look away from this intense tale of loss and endurance.
Rising star Shailene Woodley, the powerhouse from Divergent, is set to lead the charge as the protagonist in this riveting psychological thriller. She's stepping into the shoes of Eve, a woman grappling with the devastating loss of her twin sister, and it's going to be a cinematic journey like no other.
Behind the scenes, Ultra is brought to life by writer and director Victoria Negri, whose previous work on Gold Star showcases her knack for deep, emotional storytelling. Producers Allison Rose Carter and Jon Read, alongside Iris Torres, are steering the ship through Savage Rose Films—the same team behind the Oscar-winning sensation Everything Everywhere All at Once. Rounding out the creative crew are executive producers Andrew Kortschak and Lisa Ciuffetti from End Cue, known for The History of Sound, and Toby Halbrooks from Sailor Bear, the minds behind The Green Knight. This talented ensemble promises a film that's as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning.
On the business side, Mister Smith Entertainment is handling international sales, and they'll be showcasing Ultra to potential buyers at the 2025 American Film Market (AFM), a major event where filmmakers pitch their projects to distributors worldwide. For U.S. distribution, WME Independent is in the driver's seat, ensuring this story reaches audiences far and wide.
Now, let's dive into the heart of the film: the synopsis. After the heartbreaking death of her twin, Eve embarks on what might be the planet's most grueling physical challenge—the Badwater 135 Ultramarathon. This isn't your average jog; it's a brutal 135-mile trek through Death Valley, California, where the heat can soar to an oppressive 54°C (that's 129°F in case you're picturing it). As Eve battles the harsh terrain, extreme temperatures, and the sheer mental and physical toll of pushing her limits, she's stalked by a mysterious runner in white, who keeps narrowing the distance mile by mile across the desert. Desperate to escape this eerie pursuer, Eve is forced to confront her innermost demons and discover her true strength. For beginners wondering about ultramarathons, think of them as endurance races beyond the standard 26.2-mile marathon—often covering 50, 100, or even 200 miles over rugged landscapes, testing not just fitness but psychological resilience in ways that can feel almost surreal.
But here's where it gets controversial... Director Victoria Negri opens up about how personal tragedy sparked this project. 'Life-altering events, whether for good or ill, can change us forever, and Ultra emerged directly from such an experience,' she shares. 'My dad was a passionate distance runner until a stroke left him paralyzed. Running, which had been his lifeline, was ripped away, leading to immense suffering and, ultimately, his passing. In the midst of my own grief, I transformed into an ultrarunner myself, conquering two 100-mile races, multiple 50-milers, and countless marathons. Through these arduous journeys, I've learned to cope with loss—where physical agony serves as a powerful symbol for emotional pain.'
Negri goes on to describe Ultra as 'an immersive plunge into the chaos of one's inner world, where our lead character Eve can't escape the grief that haunts her like a relentless shadow in the merciless expanse of Death Valley, all during the globe's most punishing footrace: the legendary Badwater 135 Ultramarathon.' And this is the part most people miss—the film subtly explores how extreme sports can become a double-edged sword: a path to healing or a dangerous distraction from unresolved trauma. Some might argue it's empowering, while others could see it as glorifying escapism. What do you think? Can pushing your body to its limits really mend a broken heart, or is it just another way to outrun the inevitable? Is there a line where endurance becomes obsession? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments—do you agree that tragedy can fuel creativity, or disagree that sports are the ultimate coping mechanism? Share your take, and let's spark some debate!
