Back in 2014, David Robert Mitchell created something fascinating in the horror genre. His film, It Follows, was unlike anything I had seen. That was the case for many, as it became something of a phenomenon. It put him on the map in a new way and became a cult classic in the horror genre.

Now, 12 years later, he’s back with a new film that could do the same for the science fiction and adventure genre. It’s a film that bends expectations with a rich story, a cool concept, and some great performances. And it’s a gem to end the summer movie season.

The End of Oak Street presents us with a typical American family. It’s near the end of summer in 1982, and on the surface The Platts have it all. Greg (Ewan McGregor), Denise (Anne Hathaway), and their two kids Audrey (Maisy Stella) and Brian (Christian Convery) appear to be the perfect family. And they’re all together, enjoying a great day at the neighborhood block party to end summer.

But beneath the surface are cracks. Greg and Denise have a frayed relationship that is plagued by secrets. His seem to revolve around his job and all his side jobs. Hers revolve around a secret novel with is something of an expression of regret and choices she wished she’d made. And their tension, bubbling below the surface and starting to break through more often, hasn’t gone unnoticed by their kids.

One night, in the midst of a terrible storm, they all see some flashing lights and hear a big noise. They lose power, water, and just about everything else. But when the dawn breaks, they realize something bigger has happened. Their neighborhood has moved, which puts even more pressure on the issues they’ve long been ignoring.

This is not only a fascinating science fiction premise and action drama, but also a great family drama about inter-personal issues, relationships, and what it takes to keep a family together. It’s an interesting mix that ends up creating something engaging, emotional, and compelling. It’s a great offering from Mitchell, who wrote and directed the film.

I liked the action sequences and the concept. It was fun to have it set in the past, too, adding a nostalgic touch to the look of the world, they house, the cars, and the technology available. The story moves in some interesting ways, too, offering a bit of insight into the phenomenon that drives the plot without needing to offer a complete, concrete explanation.

But this is about the journey of these characters. McGregor and Hathaway are great together. The arc of their relationship, and how the tension plays out and comes full circle is rich and satisfying. There are moments of heartbreak and humor mixed in with the action, danger, and mystery. I enjoyed Stella and Convery, too. They do a nice job in their roles and help you to be locked into this family and its journey.

I deeply appreciated the third act and how it all comes together in the end. Better still, it’s wrapped up in a 99-minute package, not lingering too long on any one sequence or idea. It’s a fun ride that will draw you in and entertain you to end the summer. It’s one of my favorites of the year so far.

The End of Oak Street is now playing nationwide.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.