SILENT PLANET, THE

(director/writer: Jeffrey St. Jules; cinematographer: Paul Sarossy; editors: Tiffany Beaudin, Jeffrey St. Jules; music: Darren Fung; cast: Elias Koteas (Theodore), Briana Middleton (Niyaa), Bridget Wareham (Alana), Justin Nurse (Young Theo), Reuben Frederick Gear (Mona’s Lover); Runtime: 95; MPAA Rating: NR; producers: Andrew Bronfman, Mark O’Neill; Quiver Distribution; 2024-Canada)

“Well-acted, visually pleasing and engaging.”

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz

Jeffrey St. Jules (“Bang Bang Baby”/”Cinema of Sleep”) directs this low-key sci-fi film he has wanted to make for a long time. It’s a “contemplative film” exploring matters of regret and redemption. It has an intriguing premise and is well-acted, only it lacks originality (think Duncan Jones’s 2009 Moon). It was filmed in Newfoundland.

An alien species called the Oleans rules the Earth. They have come to Earth seeking help.

On a distant penal planet #384 run by the aliens, the aging lone prisoner Theodore (Elias Koteas) has been imprisoned for a long time serving a life sentence, and is forced to mine for ore. Suffering from isolation he dreams he’s talking to his wife Mona.

One day a new prisoner Niyaa (Briana Middleton) arrives and she urges him to recall life on Earth.


The story follows the aging convict named Theodore (Elias Koteas), who is losing his grip on reality. He’s forced to confront his past life on Earth upon the arrival of the new young woman prisoner Niyaa (Briana Middleton).

The combatants soon bond out of necessity when both are faced with isolation and loss of self. A few surprises kick in, but the final act runs out of steam. Nevertheless it’s well-acted, visually pleasing and engaging.

It played at the Fantasia International Film Festival.

REVIEWED ON 3/11/2025  GRADE: B
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