Failure!


Failure! is a 2023 crime comedy film written and directed by Alex Kahuam. The film stars Ted Raimi, Merrick McCartha, Noel Douglas Orput, Melissa Diaz and Christin Muuli.

Plot

Within one hour, a businessman must choose between his finances or murder to keep his family safe.

Cast

Production

The film was shot in a single 87-minute take. Raimi said that principal photography took three days from rehearsal to final take. The film makes Kahuam the first Mexican filmmaker to make a one shot feature film in the US.

Release

The film was picked up for distribution by Alief at Marché du Film and premiered at FrightFest on August 28, 2023. In May 2024, Red Water Entertainment acquired the North American distribution rights. It was released on video on demand on January 28, 2025.

Reception

Martin Unsworth at Starburst Magazine scored the film 5 out of 5. Paul Chapinal at Film News gave it 4 out of 5 stars. Film critic Kim Newman said the film is more satisfying that Kahuam's Forgiveness. Anton Bitel at Projected Figures said it is "an understated, if unpredictable chamber drama" that "is concerned with broader themes of American capital and criminality."
Horror icon and frequent Raimi collaborator Bruce Campbell endorsed the film by saying "Ted Raimi is one of the few actors I would — or could — watch for 87 minutes without a break."