Different variations of apocalypse in a post AI world populate the film landscape right now even more than usual since it is now undeniably part of the zeitgeist. Agnieszka Smoczyńska who as a director has made a diversified selection of genre films continues to look through her effective and specific lens in "Hot Spot", her first film released by a major US distributor in Focus Features. It very much feels like an independent approach (which reflects her well -- but with more resources).

The spectre of a greater war and where the balance lies creates an interesting parallel of what people are willing to die for and what makes a difference. Noomi Rapace as an actor has always been interested in talking chances and moving against the grain while still exploring basic psychology and physical parameters.