Get in loser, we’re going to a pool party.

It’s no secret that independent films have faced a tough climb on the box office charts in recent years, forcing those that work in the space to figure out creative ways to make waves with their work. Admittedly, first time director Sam Hayes and the team from his new film Pools didn’t have to dive too deeply to locate a strategy to make a splash for the release from Utopia arthouse division Circle Collective. But they did get wet while doing so.

Amid a sea of digital campaigns, Hayes and friends focused on in-real-life events by hosting a series of screenings and pool parties in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. The vibes at the one attended by The Hollywood Reporter on Monday very much felt vintage, like a throwback to the kinds of ol

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