Unlocking the Power of Connection: A Captivating Review of ‘Levers’ at NYFF

Rhayne Vermette’s latest film, Levers, is a cinematic journey that challenges viewers’ patience but offers a unique experience.

Director: Rhayne Vermette
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 93 minutes
New York Film Festival Screening: October 6-7, 2025
U.S. Release Date: TBA
U.K. Release Date: TBA

Sometimes, you come across a filmmaker whose dedication reshapes how you view cinema. Rhayne Vermette is one of those talents. With her new experimental piece, Levers, she proves she is a force in the film industry.

Following her 2021 debut, Ste. Anne, Vermette returns with a story set in Manitoba, Canada, where an eerie phenomenon occurs—the sun has failed to rise. This twist sends shockwaves through the community, deeply affecting their everyday lives.

Levers unfolds through a series of non-linear vignettes, each introduced by a tarot card that ties into the narrative. The film suggests that we’re all levers, with our actions having far-reaching, often unforeseen consequences.

This message is amplified by the film’s unique structure. While viewers may feel lost at times, they’ll appreciate the investment they put into the story as it develops. It acknowledges that engagement takes effort. The film defies instant gratification, presenting a puzzle that may leave some spectators bewildered.

Despite its complexity, Levers offers a refreshing break from typical storytelling. Vermette encourages each viewer to take away their own interpretation, thus reinforcing that there’s no single correct approach to the narrative.

The film disrupts our perception of reality, much like the perpetual night haunts the people of Manitoba. Drift between the natural world and civilization creates a dreamy visual experience, unlike anything else in 2025. While it may not appeal to everyone, Levers stands out as one of the most intriguing films of the year. Rhayne Vermette’s artistry is something to watch closely.

Interestingly, the concepts explored in Levers resonate in today’s social climate. A survey by the Pew Research Center found that 68% of people feel the world is becoming increasingly complicated and chaotic. In this light, Vermette’s narrative mirrors a collective struggle to find meaning amid uncertainty.

As we watch the world shift around us—whether due to climate change, social unrest, or technological advancements—films like Levers remind us that art can reflect our complexities and challenges. For anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema, Vermette’s work definitely deserves attention.

Levers will be featured at the New York Film Festival, screening on October 6-7, 2025.

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