Ponderosa (2026)

Ponderosa is an unusual American comedy-drama horror film centered on Zeke, a young man whose quiet life with his mother changes after the family restaurant where she works is scheduled to close. A wealthy regular named George becomes increasingly involved in their lives, seemingly offering help while developing an unsettling fascination with becoming a father figure to Zeke.

The film blends social satire, awkward comedy, and psychological unease rather than fitting comfortably into a single genre. Its strange family dynamics become a way of examining generational expectations, economic anxiety, and the absurdity of people who believe their own version of normality should govern everyone else.

• Written, directed, and produced by Rob Rice.
• Jack Dylan Grazer, Alexis Bledel, and Bill Camp star.
• The film had its world premiere in the U.S. Narrative Competition at the 2026 Tribeca Festival.
• Cinematography was handled by Barton Cortright and editing by Mina Fitzpatrick.
• Festival critics highlighted its unusual visual style and committed performances.