MrBeast Meets ‘Battle Royale’ In New Thriller From GenZ’s Next Great Director
Alex Ullom, a 27-year-old filmmaker, is emerging as a major directing talent with back-to-back theatrical releases showcasing distinctive creative visions. His debut feature “It Ends” premiered at SXSW and will receive wide theatrical release through Neon this weekend. The film follows four college graduates whose cross-country road trip becomes horrifyingly derailed when they become trapped on an endless highway that defies the laws of nature.
Even as “It Ends” arrives in theaters, Ullom has already completed principal photography on his ambitious follow-up project, “4 X 4: The Event.” The director describes the film as his most maximalist work—a complete aesthetic opposite from his lo-fi existential debut. According to reports, the project features content creator MrBeast and incorporates battle royale elements, positioning it as a high-concept thriller that bridges streaming culture with cinematic storytelling.
The rapid succession of projects signals Ullom’s remarkable momentum in Hollywood, particularly among Gen Z audiences seeking fresh directorial voices. While “It Ends” establishes his capability for atmospheric, high-concept horror, “4 X 4: The Event” appears positioned to showcase a far more audacious and ambitious filmmaking vision.