AC (Justine Nelson), the frontwoman for a struggling indie rock band, really needs a break. Her fellow bandmates, including close friend Court (Gwenlyn Cumyn) with whom she shares a suppressed romantic interest, are close to giving up on their music dreams and AC’s day job at a local factory isn’t exactly yielding much inspiration. One fateful day, while tuning up for an otherwise nondescript gig, the band learns a catchy new riff. As they start playing it, their music gets better, but something literally out of this world happens too: A portal to another dimension opens. With it, a colorful array of new characters enters AC’s orbit, including the eccentric Dr. Pretorious (Julian Richings) and several live show patrons whose heads just might explode — literally. Because, naturally, that’s exactly what AC needs in her already stressful life.

With its kooky energy, memorable characters and anything-goes approach, Canadian filmmaker Sam Scott’s raucous debut is a stylish blast of sci-fi, horror and comedy all rolled into one damn good time at the movies. Quirky and confident, Turn It Up! builds a world that’s both grounded (thanks to its relatable and lovable characters) and over the top, complete with playful on-screen visual flourishes and a charming recklessness in its storytelling.—Matt Barone