Ben Wheatley Curates a 12-Hour Sci-Fi Noir Marathon Inspired by His Film ‘Bulk’

British director Ben Wheatley, known for his distinct and genre-bending filmography, has curated a twelve-hour sci-fi film marathon inspired by his latest movie, ‘Bulk’. This new film, currently touring independent cinemas across the UK and Ireland, combines science fiction, noir, and paranoid thriller elements. In the spirit of independent filmmaking, ‘Bulk’ features handmade effects, experimental visuals, and an unconventional distribution strategy focused on small arthouse venues rather than mainstream releases.

For this special edition of *The Guide*, Wheatley selected eight films that fuelled his creative process and embody the resourceful spirit of independent genre cinema. The marathon begins with Jean-Luc Godard’s ‘Alphaville’, a pioneering French New Wave sci-fi noir, followed by the cult Japanese cyberpunk horror ‘Tetsuo: The Iron Man’. Wheatley also includes the eerie British classic ‘Quatermass 2’, Karel Zeman’s imaginative adventure ‘Journey to the Beginning of Time’, and Carol Reed’s iconic noir masterpiece ‘The Third Man’. Later in the line-up are Shane Carruth’s mind-bending indie time-travel film ‘Primer’, David Cronenberg’s telekinetic thriller ‘Scanners’, and Jean-Pierre Melville’s stylish crime noir ‘Le Samouraï’.

Wheatley’s selection reflects his fascination with paranoia, dystopian societies, and cinematic experimentation. The director emphasizes accessibility and creativity over budget, encouraging filmmakers to embrace freedom and innovation outside the studio system. His curated lineup invites audiences to experience a full day of cinematic surrealism and psychological unease, tracing the lineage of ideas that continue to shape his own art.