I really like the concept that director Jeff James Monson and writer Brian Morelan go for with what I would describe as “Weird Science” for the gamer audiences. “Game Companion” is a funny and zany short film about two hardcore gamers that happen to master their favorite fighting game. Little do they know that their reward is being able to garner a companion in the beautiful game character Kimiko. But things go awry quickly.
Unlike “Weird Science,” Kimiko quickly begins to learn that her heroes are anything but, and decides that she really should re-think her situation. Director Jeff James Monson and writer Brian Morelan manage to turn what could have been a one note joke in to a very funny comedy short. Despite the obvious low budget, “Game Companion” musters up a very unique video game atmosphere while also building on a premise that could have worked as a feature length film.
The live action recreation of the fighting game format in place of animation is surprisingly effective, especially in how it only further drives home the eccentric tone of the comedy. Director Monson and writer Morelan pack the film with a slew of great performances including Gord Bestwick and Leon Potter, both of whom inspired some laughter. “Game Companion” is an admirably off the wall comedy, and one that deserves an audience, if only for the hilarious ending. I look forward to seeing more from Jeff James Monson and Brian Morelan in the future. Especially in regards to feature length works.