With his body on the bathroom floor, a stand-up comedian looks for answers as to why he is in this situation and what led him to where his life is now.
Written by Tim Hautekiet and Nik Oldershaw with the former directing as well. The story here develops in a non-linear manner with flashbacks and scenes taking place in the lead’s brain as well as a bunch of other things coming into play. There is a lot here, but it’s still easy to follow. Having a minimal group of characters with the lead talking through a lot of what is going on here works great and gives the viewer a glimpse into his mind, the way he thinks, and how the film is going to resolve itself. This is a story that will not be for everyone, but fans of cerebral comedies and those ready to jump in and let a film take them into its universe should really love this. It’s well written and directed as well as features solid acting.
The cast here is indeed solid with Jack De Sena in the lead playing a character that is a bit grating at first but eventually grows on you as he makes sense of his own life and potential death due to his unknown situation putting him in what is soon explained to be his own mind with memories and friends coming and going to keep him company and make him discover where this is all going one step at a time. De Dena is a good dislikable likable character and plays both sides of his character quite well with some moments of genuine natural acting here and there that really help the viewer suspend their disbelief. Playing his best friend Chris is actor Chris W. Smith who is the perfect counterbalance to Jack. His take on the part makes sense and adds to the film in a good manner. Playing Jack’s girlfriend/ex Mia is Kelly Marie Tran who is fantastic here, stealing more than a few scenes. She’s great and it is lovely to see her acting in something like this. The rest of the cast gets a bit less screen time each, but in most cases makes the most of what lines and interactions they do get.
The way the film is shot is great here with a good look that has both color scenes and black and white scenes, something that makes sense here once you see the film The cinematography by Maximilian Schmige paired with the lighting and camera work is great at bringing this look to life and really bringing the viewer into the story. Also helping is the décor. The time spent in the lead’s brain is clearly marked with lack of décor and anything fancy, showing something is off. The décor in other scenes varies depending on the content and what these scenes represent, showing how closely the production paid to details here and to the story make sense not only in terms of writing but also in a visual manner.
The film is an easy watch as we spiral down with the lead and join him on his way back to life. The writing and direction work well together, the acting is solid, and the attention to details will suck just about anyone in. This dark comedy is one to make sure is on the radar for a quick, less than 90 minutes, enjoyable watch.