Skonflix Overview & Editorial Review
When a devastating catastrophe forces humanity to abandon the surface world, two vastly different societies emerge in the struggle for survival: the elite upper class who dwell in high tech, sunlit floating sky platforms, and the working class survivors who endure a harsh, dangerous existence in the dark subterranean tunnels below. The fragile peace between the two worlds shatters when an idealistic young technician from the subterranean levels uncovers a hidden conspiracy that proves the surface environment is recovering, a secret the governing sky council has deliberately suppressed to maintain absolute control over remaining resources. Partnering with a cynical surface scout who patrols the dangerous wilderness between both realms, the duo embarks on a dangerous journey across forbidden territories, evading heavily armed security drones and subterranean rebel factions. As tension mounts and an all out class war looms, they must navigate treacherous ruins, bypass complex security protocols, and expose the truth before the ruling authority executes a brutal purge to permanently silence the underground population.
Directed by visionary filmmaker Mike Cahill (I Origins, Another Earth), Above & Below (2026) is an ambitious sci-fi survival thriller feature produced by Searchlight Pictures and Film4. Filmed across striking natural landscapes in Iceland and industrial soundstages in London, the production team relied heavily on high contrast visual design to emphasize the stark disparity between the sterile, blindingly bright sky platforms and the shadowy, atmospheric subterranean tunnels. The visual effects crew combined practical set design with seamless digital world building, creating an immersive futuristic landscape that grounds the high concept social allegory in tangible, tactile realism.
Releasing in select movie theaters before streaming digitally on platforms including Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV in late 2026, the sci-fi drama features a compelling cast led by Florence Pugh, Anthony Mackie, and Alexander Skarsgård. Critics and audiences warmly praised the feature for its thought provoking social commentary, breathtaking visual cinematography, and strong lead performances that elevated the tension filled narrative. Delivering a gripping blend of high concept science fiction and emotional character drama, the release established itself as a standout original film for genre fans worldwide.