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Unexpected Treasures

Play trailer 2:04 Poster for Unexpected Treasures 2025 1h 35m Sci-Fi Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 3 Reviews 96% Popcornmeter 50+ Ratings
Set against the mystical backdrop of the Mojave Desert, UNEXPECTED TREASURES follows Hartley (Olivia Blue, Animal Kingdom), a down-on-her-luck desert dweller who stumbles upon Sam (two-time Emmy Award winner Mike Manning, Beyond the Gates, This is Us), a charming alien fugitive. Together, they race to outrun an alien bounty hunter, unlock ancient prophecies, and discover that true connection often comes from the most unexpected places.

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Unexpected Treasures

Critics Reviews

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Alan Ng Film Threat Sep 24
7.5/10
Unexpected Treasures reminds us that survival is only part of the journey—it’s all about the connections we forge along the way. Go to Full Review
Surya Komal Just for Movie Freaks Sep 22
3/5
Unexpected Treasures is an easygoing, nostalgic adventure that succeeds more in mood than in depth. Its desert setting, 90s-inspired vibe, and charming performances make it an entertaining watch, especially for those seeking a light, feel-good journey. Go to Full Review
Shikhar Verma High on Films Sep 19
2/5
This quirky alien adventure eventually dips its toes into a predictable and scrappy narrative that wants to be one too many things at once, resulting in a messy, forgettable film. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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J W @MoebiusStarwatcher 1d If you love the California desert (or just want to see it in all it's breathtaking glory), and are a fan of sci-fi, aliens, romance, and hipster hilarity--then this is the film for you! I could tell it was shot on location in Pioneertown and other areas of the high desert near Joshua Tree, which are some of my favorite places on earth! It really captured all the beauty and the vibes of desert living!! I also loved the character development, and how the complex mother/daughter relationship was portrayed. After watching, you'll want to come out to the desert to meet ultra-terrestrials IRL as well...IYKYK! See more Christine C @cclayton777 1d A 90 minute adventure that was so much fun! It's beautifully shot, the actors are incredible, and the story has so much heart and humor. We need more original content like this. Absolutely worth a watch! See more Brandy Z 1d This movie is surprisingly charming and well made, with fun characters and strong performances throughout. You can really feel the care that went into it, which makes it even more enjoyable to watch. It’s wholesome, easy-going entertainment that’s simply nice! See more Marcie J 2d I loved this film ! It was funny, had a perfect amount of suspense. The photography was fantastic and the acting was top notch - the back drop of Joshua Tree sealed it. See more Matt B. @buzsawbrns 2d I’m a big fan of this style of movie. Technically very well done and I hope there’s a sequel! See more Ian K. W @enkDDB 2d Watch and you will be reminded that original stories and independent films are really the backbone of Hollywood. This movie is fun and this is really how movies should be. Enjoyable and full of whimsy. Worth a watch for sure. See more Read all reviews
Unexpected Treasures

My Rating

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Movie Info

Synopsis Set against the mystical backdrop of the Mojave Desert, UNEXPECTED TREASURES follows Hartley (Olivia Blue, Animal Kingdom), a down-on-her-luck desert dweller who stumbles upon Sam (two-time Emmy Award winner Mike Manning, Beyond the Gates, This is Us), a charming alien fugitive. Together, they race to outrun an alien bounty hunter, unlock ancient prophecies, and discover that true connection often comes from the most unexpected places.
Director
John Paul Ungaretti
Producer
Christina Heller, Aline Andrade
Screenwriter
Christina Heller, John Paul Ungaretti
Distributor
Desert Fisbowl
Production Co
Desert Fishbowl
Genre
Sci-Fi
Original Language
English
Release Date (Streaming)
Sep 15, 2025
Runtime
1h 35m
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