The world has changed drastically in the last decade and continues to do so. One of those big changes comes in the form of crypto, which if you ask various people they’ll all have their own perception of it. It was a matter of time before we started seeing films that revolved around cryptocurrency. Brandon Daley delivers $POSITIONS an anxiety inducing Midwest crypt odyssey. $POSITIONS premiered at SXSW 2025 and I kept hearing so many great things about the film. I was told it’s one of those movies where you think “Oh this possibly can’t get any worse for the character” and then it does. The film stars Michael  Kunicki as Mike Alvarado, a down on his luck guy just trying to hit it big. He’s glued to his phone waiting for his crypto coin to finally catapult and make a better life for him and his family. The problem is, just like with anything in life, it’s all about timing and that usually never works out perfectly.

I loved the approach that Brandon gives to not just the chartacters but the world of $POSITIONS. You really get a sense of this town and how it molds the characters around it. All of this makes the film that much funnier and also thrilling. Brandon has a unique style of being able to incorporate various tones and make them work. The film can get hilariously funny but also dark and morbid right away. It’s reaches points of absurdity at times that you forget there’s something darker looming. The way the film catches you off guard in those moments works so well.

Vinny Kress, Trevor Dawkins, and Kaylyn Carter do an amazing job in their respective roles. Trevor Dawkins however really shines in the second half as he really is trying to change. There’s a scene in particular that comes to mind where Dawkins delivers such a great monologue that really brings it all home. It’s exceptionally done and really works well for the film. $POSITIONS almost feels like Napoleon Dynamite meets Uncut Gems with its comedy, while also packing some thrills. The way Brandon is able to give so much detail and texture to this world is what makes it work. There are so many unique and vibrant voices throughout the film that give it more depth. Although, some characters I felt were a bit underdeveloped and could have amplified the movie more. In its second half it seems the movie starts to lose steam and can feel repetitive at times. However, the final third act really brings its home with a hard-hitting punch back to reality.

Overall, I think $POSITIONS is a must-see comedy thriller that tackles the dangers of addiction. Brandon has really created a unique vision of the dream of getting rich quick that turns into a nightmare for many. Mike is not a likeable character at all and continuously showcases he will always come first. There’s a frustration that you feel towards him but also you pity him which makes it complicated. All of the anxiety-inducing and hilarious moments he brings a complexity to the character. I think the feeling that this a reality for many makes $POSITIONS that much more poignant. I’m excited to see what everyone involved in the film does next.