LOCAL HEAVENS

Pun Bandhu narrates most of this unique cyberpunk reimagining of "The Great Gatsby." The year is 2075, and Nick Carraway is an expert cyberspace diver. His new contract brings him to New York, where he meets up with his cousin, Daisy; her abrasive husband, Tom; and Daisy's friend, Jordan. Nick poses as Jay Gatsby's newest Gen Wealth employee so he can investigate the mysterious man behind the company. Mieko Gavia voices short segments relating to Gen Wealth's business, showing an impressive balance between saccharine sales pitches and desperate people who are struggling to make ends meet. Bandhu's excellent pacing enhances tense scenes as Nick delves into Gatsby's past. Most impressively, Bandhu switches smoothly between Nick's caution and Gatsby's charm. [Published: JANUARY 2026]