Shucks, the debut film by visionary independent filmmaker Ty Brueilly, is set to make its long-awaited Hollywood premiere at the world-famous TCL Chinese Theatre this February. Originally released in 2017, the 49-minute black-and-white silent film has gained a cult following, leading to the expansion of its eerie and abstract world into a full-fledged cinematic universe.
Brueilly’s Shucks follows a ritualistic man’s struggle to escape his own habitual flaws, unknowingly transforming himself into what he consumes. Laden with haunting visuals and an unsettling atmosphere, the film offers a surreal, metaphor-rich experience that lingers in the minds of its viewers. The tagline, New surroundings, old rituals, encapsulates the cyclical and transformative nature of the film’s themes.
Since its initial hometown premiere, Shucks has grown into a larger mythology, with ten sequels already released and three more in various stages of production. The latest installment, At a Distance: 7eventh Sirkle, has been a standout on the festival circuit, earning dozens of awards and critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and immersive world-building. The renewed interest in Shucks has led to this prestigious Hollywood screening, marking a significant milestone for Brueilly and his team.
Brueilly not only wrote and directed Shucks but also took on multiple key roles, including cinematographer, editor, executive producer, composer, and even art direction. His hands-on approach and singular vision have shaped the film into a wholly original work. The film stars Koba Brueilly, Megan Brueilly, Austin Rich, and Ty Brueilly himself in multiple roles, each contributing to the film’s hypnotic and immersive style. Megan Brueilly also played a crucial role in set decoration and wardrobe, while Austin Rich performed the film’s intricate stunt work, adding to its physical and psychological intensity.
The aesthetic of Shucks is deeply rooted in avant-garde cinema, blending expressionist imagery with a minimalist narrative structure. The film’s use of high-contrast black-and-white cinematography, combined with an eerie and sometimes repetitive score, enhances the dreamlike quality of its storytelling. Brueilly’s meticulous attention to detail in costume design, sound editing, and location selection adds layers of meaning that invite multiple interpretations.
With the upcoming screening at the TCL Chinese Theatre, Brueilly and his team hope to introduce a new wave of audiences to the origins of their growing cinematic world. The Hollywood premiere provides an exciting opportunity for film enthusiasts, critics, and industry professionals to experience the film in an iconic setting and engage in discussions about its themes and impact.
Jessie Hobson