Turn Up the Night made its World Premiere at the Buffalo International Film Festival on October 10th, 2025, and immediately proved itself to be more than just another “rock band rise and fall” story. Written by Rick Masi and directed by Melodie Roehrig, the film captures both the electrifying highs and gut-wrenching lows of 1980s hard rock excess with sincerity, grit, and heart.
At the center of this story is guitarist Derek Carver (K Cody Hunt), a small-town dreamer who trades Michigan winters for the neon heat of Los Angeles. When he joins the swaggering band Boy Elroy, led by magnetic but volatile frontman Kimmi Gaines (Will Nemi), the group’s meteoric rise feels unstoppable. But as fame, ego, and industry pressure collide, the cracks begin to show. Derek’s growing relationship with actress Iona (played by Roehrig herself) grounds the story emotionally, revealing the cost of chasing dreams in a world built on illusion.
The performances are one of the film’s biggest strengths. Hunt, who was excellent in Creeping Death, brings both quiet sensitivity and raw intensity to Derek, capturing the spirit of an artist caught between ambition and authenticity. Nemi shines as Kimmi, perfectly embodying the larger-than-life charisma and destructive impulses of an 80s rock frontman. Roehrig’s turn as Iona is warm and genuine, while Masi himself, as Bazzle, adds humor and heart.
Masi’s writing and songwriting deserve special praise. The dialogue feels lived-in and personal, the kind of storytelling that could only come from someone who’s seen the music world up close. The original songs are well-crafted and genuinely catchy, fitting seamlessly into the story’s emotional rhythm. Composer Avery Munger’s score complements these tracks beautifully, enhancing the film’s emotional undercurrents without overwhelming them.
Visually, Brandon Moran’s cinematography gives the film a polished, nostalgic look that evokes the era without feeling forced. From smoky dive bars to sun-soaked California streets, each frame feels authentic. The attention to detail, especially in the music performance scenes, is superb. You can practically feel the sweat, feedback, and crowd energy pulsing off the screen.
There are plenty of rock biopics out there, but Turn Up the Night stands out because it doesn’t just chronicle a band’s rise and fall, it feels like it’s written by people who lived it. The film is warm, sincere, and clearly made with passion. While the story may follow familiar beats, the heart behind it makes all the difference.
And yes, true to its rock ‘n’ roll spirit, there’s even a satisfying guitar smash or two for good measure.
Turn Up the Night is a love letter to the 80s music scene, but more importantly, it’s a story about dreams, loss, and what it really means to create art in a world obsessed with fame. It’s well-written, beautifully shot, and anchored by strong performances and an outstanding soundtrack. You can feel the emotion both on screen and in the audience, a clear sign that this indie passion project hits all the right notes.
Verdict: A heartfelt and well-crafted ode to the highs and heartbreaks of rock stardom. Turn Up the Night is the kind of film that reminds you why people chase the stage in the first place.
Jessie Hobson