Tonic

This indie film plays out like a modern-day Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Minute by minute, you feel like you're in Sebastian's shoes, digging deeper into trouble with no clear way out. The tension escalates with precision, turning what starts as a slow burn into a relentless thrill ride.

It's hard to look away. Every twist left me wondering what could possibly happen next. Just when you think the story has reached its peak, it tightens the screws even more. The pacing is sharp, the performances are raw, and the direction keeps you hooked without ever feeling forced.

A must-watch for anyone who craves gritty, character-driven thrillers with style and soul.

Billy is the endearing piano player who can't seem to catch a break and I found myself both loving/hating how he got himself in this tight spot! I thought his performance was incredible, he carried the whole film spectacularly, and the supporting cast is also quite enjoyable. As both a local Texan, and a film buff, I especially loved the unique location of the flavorful Dallas West Elm district as the seedy underbelly birthing all this incredible drama. Bravo to all involved, from the creative script, to the talented actors, the amazing production crew, and the brilliant producers for creating this must-see amazing film!

It reminded me of Good Times (possibly mixed with some Charles Bukowski) while also remaining unique as well as entertaining through and through. I found it darkly humorous in a refreshing way. I'm not sure if it was the writer / director's intent (the same person), but it manages to satirize the human condition (my interpretation) without being self-indulgent about it. It's nice to watch a film that was made for more than the sake of the "bottom line." Unlike most movies, I don't feel like it didn't waste my time.

I look forward to seeing more work from Derek Presley in the (hopefully near) future.

Billy follows the harrowing journey of a struggling piano player trying to care for his terminally ill sister, Lori. What unfolds is a dark, emotionally charged exploration of how far someone will go to pay off a debt when life has pushed them to the edge.

The lead performance is outstanding-raw, vulnerable, and utterly compelling. Billy's descent into desperation is portrayed with nuance and intensity, and the film doesn't shy away from asking difficult questions about morality, sacrifice, and identity.

In an era where many films feel formulaic, Billy dares to be different. It brings a unique cinematic tone and vision that sets it apart. Gritty, creative, and deeply human, this is a film that lingers.

Kudos to the entire team for delivering something so original. The script is sharp, the direction confident, and the storytelling refreshingly bold.

What a great indie film! I felt like I was watching a John Cassavetes film, it was so good. It's a story of the inner struggle of a man trying to make his way in a world where things seem to be against him at every turn. The twists and turns that take him thru a very long night are at times drama and at times comedic. The cast is spot on, especially Billy, the piano playing central character. The folks he interacts with during the film are all memorable in there own way.

This film is complete departure from what is being churned out by the big studios, and offers something unique to the viewer. Highly recommend!