Today marks the release of Mary Beth McAndrews’ debut feature, Bystanders. This over-the-top, modern revenge thriller follows a couple on a date night that takes a dark turn when they stumble upon the aftermath of a date rape party hosted by a group of local frat guys. With its shocking twists and relentless pace, Bystanders is a bold take on the genre.
Travis sat down with McAndrews to discuss what initially drew her to Jamie Alvey’s writing, the challenges of telling a story rooted in themes of sexual assault, and the personal impact of tackling such a heavy subject. McAndrews, a survivor of sexual assault herself, shares her insights on bringing authenticity to the film and navigating the creative process.
As her directorial debut, Bystanders also comes with a behind-the-scenes story that will leave you smiling. Our review of Bystanders is now live, and the film is available on demand today, courtesy of Dread.
Enjoy this insightful interview, and be sure to check out Bystanders for your next dose of revenge-fueled cinema!
Uniquely positioned from a feminist point of view, the Bystanders synopsis reads: Clare and Gray are your typical loving millennial couple navigating a jaded world. Abby is a sweet awkward teen. When Abby attends a party held by her crush, a rich frat boy hotshot named Cody, the bash spins out of control when Cody and the boys decide to drug, rape, and hunt several of the girls in attendance. When Abby’s path intersects with Gray and Clare’s path, they form an unlikely alliance during a night of chaos and bloodshed as the trio fight for their lives against the collegiate creeps.
Bystanders
Directed Mary Beth McAndrews
Written by Jamie Alvey
Starring: Brandi Botkin, Bob Wilcox, Garrett Murphy, Jamie Alvey, Chaney Morrow and Hannah Fierman.
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