Redux Redux [Fantasia 2025 Review]

by Mike McGranaghan

Redux Redux opens with a shot of a woman standing in front of a man who has been tied to a chair and set on fire. It is not the first time we will see this woman murder that man. His repeated demise is a major plot point in Redux Redux, which screened at Fantasia 2025. The film grabs you by the throat from the first second and doesn’t let go.

Irene Kelly (Michaela McManus) is on a mission. She’s got a special device – a large metal coffin-like box - that allows her to move through parallel dimensions. Her goal is to find one where her young daughter wasn’t murdered by a sicko named Neville (Jeremy Holm). So far, this has eluded her, but at least she gets to kill the guy in every dimension she visits. During one stop, Irene ends up taking on a partner, Mia (Stella Marcus), who is slated to be another of Neville’s victims.

Filmmaking siblings Kevin and Matthew McManus use this premise for two purposes. The first is to generate ongoing suspense. Irene not only has to murder Neville in each dimension, she also needs to make it back to her box before being apprehended by law enforcement or interfering bystanders. Redux Redux delivers marvelously on that count, delivering consistent thrills.

The second purpose is to explore the idea of vengeance. Irene’s rage is understandable. Her desire to kill, however, oddly lessens once she meets Mia. The teenager develops a similar thirst for revenge that compels Irene to reevaluate herself and question whether violence is actually alleviating her grief or just prolonging it. Going deeper into the idea of getting even gives the movie an intellectual edge to match its excitement level.

Michaela McManus is compelling as Irene, and Stella Marcus brings an authentic toughness to Mia. Both actresses are terrific, as is Jeremy Holm, whose malice will chill you to the bone. Redux Redux is ingeniously conceived and stylishly crafted, making it a superior revenge flick.

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