"Beginning": Depp, Dinklage, & Affleck Star in Haunting New Film

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Sunday, March 29th 2026 at 0:44 GMT by IndieWire
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - March 29th, 2026 - Director Mark Pellington, known for his psychologically charged thrillers like "Arlington Road" and "Push", has once again delivered a film that burrows under the skin and lingers in the mind. His latest work, "Beginning," currently streaming, isn't a simple narrative; it's a haunting exploration of grief, familial secrets, and the unreliable nature of memory, all wrapped within a dreamlike cinematic experience.

The film stars a powerhouse trio - Johnny Depp, Peter Dinklage, and Casey Affleck - and centers around Sandi (Depp), a man whose carefully constructed reality fractures with the unexpected death of his father. This event doesn't simply spark mourning; it ignites a desperate need to understand the truth behind his family history and, ultimately, himself. "Beginning" isn't a whodunnit in the traditional sense, but rather a 'why did this happen?' unraveling of a life built on potentially shaky foundations.

Pellington has openly discussed the deeply personal origins of "Beginning," revealing the film as a form of cinematic self-archaeology. It's a project fueled by his own desire to confront and re-examine formative experiences and the intricate, often messy, dynamics of family relationships. This isn't a narrative detached from the director's life; it's a distillation of his own grappling with regret, seeking understanding, and acknowledging the lasting impact of the past.

Peter Dinklage's portrayal of Jasper, a mysterious guide figure, is particularly intriguing. Jasper doesn't offer easy answers or conventional support. Instead, he acts as a catalyst, pushing Sandi to confront uncomfortable truths and navigate the labyrinth of his memories. Dinklage's performance is subtle and nuanced, embodying an enigmatic presence that keeps the audience guessing about his true motivations. Casey Affleck, as Bobby, Sandi's brother, provides a vital counterpoint. Bobby isn't seeking answers; he's consumed by his own inner struggles, offering a glimpse into the collateral damage that often accompanies unresolved trauma within families.

What sets "Beginning" apart is Pellington's bold approach to filmmaking. Eschewing straightforward storytelling, he employs experimental techniques - fragmented timelines, surreal imagery, and a deliberately ambiguous atmosphere - to create a cinematic experience that mimics the elusive and often distorted nature of memory. The film isn't concerned with presenting a clear, linear narrative; it's interested in evoking a feeling - the disorientation of grief, the weight of the past, and the unsettling realization that our perceptions of reality are often flawed.

Critics have lauded Pellington's willingness to take risks. While some viewers might find the film's non-traditional structure challenging, many have praised its emotional resonance and thought-provoking themes. The film doesn't provide easy resolutions; it leaves the audience with questions to ponder long after the credits roll. This ambiguity isn't a flaw; it's a deliberate choice that reflects the complexities of human experience and the often-unanswerable questions that haunt us.

"I wanted to make a film that felt like a memory," Pellington explains, "Something that would stay with you long after you've seen it." He has undoubtedly succeeded. "Beginning" isn't a film you simply watch; it's a film you experience. It's a film that requires active engagement, inviting viewers to piece together fragments of the past and confront their own understanding of memory, loss, and the enduring power of family.

The film's success also signals a continued interest in character-driven dramas that prioritize emotional depth and psychological complexity. In an era often dominated by spectacle and franchise filmmaking, "Beginning" stands as a testament to the power of intimate, introspective storytelling. It's a reminder that some of the most compelling films are those that dare to delve into the darker corners of the human psyche and explore the universal themes of grief, regret, and the search for meaning. Viewers seeking a challenging, rewarding, and ultimately unforgettable cinematic experience will find much to appreciate in Mark Pellington's haunting and beautifully crafted "Beginning."