Facebook

FilmNerd

Category: Comedy

  • LolliLove (2004)

    LolliLove (2004)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    While she’s famous today as Pam from The Office, St. Louis native Jenna Fischer was unknown in the early 2000s. She moved to LA in 1998, mostly landing small parts in Spin City, Cold Case, and That 70’s Show. Shortly after moving, she attended a charity event for a low-income school, where she saw something that stuck with her. While everyone in attendance was formally dressed and eating fancy meals, the schoolchildren were forced to sing. Two years after moving, Fischer married aspiring filmmaker and fellow St. Louisan James Gunn, who had just done The Specials. With Gunn’s help, she took the charity event experience and started working on a mockumentary about wealthy people doing charity. With a budget of $2,000, filming was done mostly on weekends over four years with Jenna, James, and their friends. Upon completion, LolliLove premiered at the St. Louis International Film Festival in November 2004.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”80″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Jenna (Jenna Fischer) and James (James Gunn) are a young, hip couple living in Southern California with a dream. Wanting to help others, as well as get name recognition, Jenna and James decide to start a charity program. Dubbed “LolliLove,” the program entails giving a lollipop with an inspirational drawing/message to a homeless person to brighten their day. They try getting help from their wealthy friends Jason (Jason Segel) and Linda (Linda Cardellini), but neither is interested. As the couple struggles to get the program off the ground, Jenna and James’ marriage gets rocky. They try talking with Father Lloyd (Lloyd Kaufman) to fix their marriage while working on bringing their charity to life. Thankfully, with help from her friends Sarah (Sarah Sido), Michelle (Michelle Gunn), and Judy (Judy Greer), things are a go. Will their charity program succeed or fail like so many others?

     

    Review

    LolliLove is a wicked satire that pokes fun at the hypocrisy of well-to-do trying to do charity for selfish reasons. The characters claim they want to help the poor, but it’s clear they’re only doing it for attention. While they talk of wanting to do good, they’re immediately put off once they meet the homeless. When James and Jenna do a presentation to try and get a sponsor, it’s so artificial that it’s hilarious. Fischer perfectly captures how ridiculous it is that certain people only do charity for self-love and recognition. Aside from them being married at the time, Fischer and Gunn play off each other well and have great chemistry. The film is worth watching to see future superstars like Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini, and Judy Greer. Along with Fischer and Gunn, the supporting cast gets the satire and plays along with it.

    The mockumentary style works for this film, and it weirdly predicts Jenna Fischer’s future success with The Office. Framing this like a documentary adds a sense of realism to where you believe the ridiculousness on screen. Admittedly, the movie’s not quite spot-on as similar mockumentaries like This Is Spinal Tap, but it still works. The film goes by quickly at a little over an hour, though there is some padding that drags it down. It doesn’t help that much of the dialogue was improvised, which makes the film feel unstructured. Also, the film’s satire might put off some audiences and make them think it discourages trying to be charitable. However, Fischer and company never intended to make that point, but rather that even the most well-intentioned can stumble. Overall, LolliLove is a brilliantly witty social satire that, while uneven, is still relevant today.

     

    Buy LolliLove from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3m8cd9v.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Cocaine Bear (2023)

    Cocaine Bear (2023)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    In December 1985, convicted drug smuggler Andrew C. Thornton II threw several bags of cocaine from an airplane. While Thornton died due to a faulty parachute, some of the cocaine was found by a black bear in Georgia. Sadly, the bear passed away, and its body was found three months later, along with 40 plastic containers of cocaine. In December 2019, filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller announced they were producing a horror-comedy inspired by the true story. The film was based on a script by writer Jimmy Warden, and Universal announced the project’s development in 2021. They announced actress Elizabeth Banks would be directing, having previously helmed Pitch Perfect 2 and the 2019 Charlie’s Angels reboot. The movie was shot in County Wicklow, Ireland, from April to October 2021 on a $30-35 million budget. After another year of post-production, Cocaine Bear hit theaters in February 2023.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    A massive shipment of cocaine is dropped from an airplane and lands in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The drugs are found by a black bear, who ingests the cocaine and starts attacking local hikers. Meanwhile, Tenessee detective Bob (Isiah Whitlock Jr.) is investigating and determines it belonged to drug dealer Syd White (Ray Liotta). Over in St. Louis, Syd sends his fixer Daveed (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) to go to Georgia and retrieve the coke. Daveed meets with Syd’s depressed son Eddie (Alden Ehrenreich) to search for the lost drugs, with Bob soon behind them. In Georgia, local nurse Sari (Keri Russell) is looking for her daughter Dee Dee (Brooklynn Prince), who ran off. With help from Dee Dee’s friend Henry (Christian Convery), she searches for her missing daughter, the bear running rampant. Will Sari rescue her daughter, will Syd get the drugs, and who will survive against the Cocaine Bear?

     

    Review

    Cocaine Bear is one of those movies where it can’t seem to decide what it wants to be. Is it trying to be a fun, gore-filled horror-comedy about a coked-out bear killing people? Or does it want to be a serious yet comedic movie about various characters being drawn together by the bear? Of the 95-minute runtime, about 10-15 minutes of it is devoted to the bear going on a rampage. For all the crazy bear stuff, we have to watch these human characters meander about and settle their plotlines. You get the impression that Elizabeth Banks might’ve wanted to go the more extreme route only to dial it back. To their credit, the actors all do a decent job of taking this ridiculous movie seriously, which makes it funnier. The biggest standouts are O’Shea Jackson Jr and Alden Ehrenreich, who have some great and forths.

    Keri Russell isn’t terrible as the mother trying to find her daughter, but she comes off as somewhat bland. Ray Liotta, who sadly passed away after filming, has some entertaining moments, though he isn’t in the movie much. The rest of the supporting cast has a few moments, but none stand out memorably except for Isiah Whitlock Jr. Most audiences watch this movie for the coked-out bear, which it delivers on, even if the CGI bear sticks out. Granted, the digital effects aren’t terrible, and some decent practical gore is sprinkled in, so that helps. Still, people expecting the movie to be just like the trailer and poster might be disappointed. Sure, there are the over-the-top bear scenes you hope for, but there’s not enough to live up to the hype. Overall, Cocaine Bear has some B-movie thrills, but it’s padded chiefly with tons of filler.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Cocaine Bear” playing in theaters starting Feb 24th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Groundhog Day (1993)

    Groundhog Day (1993)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    In the early 1990s, writer Danny Rubin got an idea for a film after reading Anne Rice’s The Vampire Lestat. He wondered what someone would do if they had unlimited time and how boring that would get after a while. With the script finished, Rubin tried shopping it around until it caught the attention of talent agent Richard Lovett. Lovett passed the screenplay along to Harold Ramis, who immediately signed on to direct because it spoke to him spiritually. Ramis worked with Rubin to add more comedic elements to the script, which interested Bill Murray in starring. For the rest of the cast, they hired Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliot, Stephen Tobolowsky, and Brian Doyle-Murray, amongst others. With a $14.6 and $30 million budget, filming lasted from April to June 1992 despite tensions between Ramis and Murray. Groundhog Day finally hit theaters on February 12, 1993.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”90″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Phil Conners (Bill Murray), an egotistical, cynical TV weatherman, goes to Punxsutawney for his annual Groundhog Day coverage. He’s accompanied by producer Rita Hanson (Andie MacDowall) and cameraman Larry (Chris Elliott) and makes no qualms about hating it. After covering the festivities, Conners wants to leave but is stuck due to a blizzard that he predicted wouldn’t happen. The following day, he wakes up to find that yesterday’s events are happening again, but no one else notices. Realizing that he’s stuck in a time loop, Phil tries explaining his situation to Rita, but she doesn’t believe him. At first, Phil decides to use this to hook up with random women, commit robberies, and generally manipulate everyone. However, when he tries the same tactics on Rita and fails, Phil realizes he needs to change his ways. Will Phil become a better person or be stuck in Groundhog Day forever?

     

    Review

    It’s a shame this film ended Bill Murray and Harold Ramis’ decades-long relationship, but at least it was another classic. Groundhog Day is a goofy comedy and an emotional character drama about love and redemption. While he has the same trademark dry wit and sarcastic attitude, Murray shows his more dramatic side here. You see him go from arrogant and mean-spirited to depressed and suicidal before he redeems himself. It’s a typical “bad guy changes their ways” story we’ve seen several times before, but it’s done so well here. Andie MacDowell is excellent as the adorably cheerful and optimistic Rita, contrasting perfectly with Murray’s cynicism. Chris Elliot doesn’t have much to do as Larry, but he gets a few moments to shine. Stephen Tobolowsky is a scene stealer as Ned Ryerson, an obnoxious insurance salesman who Conners constantly runs into. Seeing how Conners responds to Ryerson is a riot.

    Since the film revolves around the same day, happening repeatedly, scenes can get repetitive quickly. Also, parts of the movie feel episodic, like a new subplot starts up, only to be resolved in five minutes. The tone can sometimes be inconsistent, going from funny to severe to comedic again without a rhyme or reason. Still, some of these flaws don’t seem like flaws; instead, they’re meant to make you feel how Murray’s character feels. The movie is a metaphor for living the same life day in and day out and feeling stuck. It also shows how the fact that we only have a limited amount of time makes our lives more memorable. While previous Ramis/Murray comedies like Caddyshack, Stripes, and Ghostbusters are classics, this stands in a league of its own. Overall, Groundhog Day is among the best 90s comedies that continue to stand the test of time.

     

    Buy Groundhog Day from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3RqigSD.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • B.C. Butcher (2016)

    B.C. Butcher (2016)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    From a very young age, Kansas Bowling was interested in films and wanted to make movies more than anything. While her dad introduced her to plenty of 90s movies, she became interested in films from the 60s and 70s. Kansas and her friend were big John Waters fans, and she discovered Troma around age 12 with Cannibal! The Musical. When she was 13, Kansas got a Super 8 camera as a gift and made short films with her sister. She was also a fan of Barbara Bach, who starred in the 1981 comedy Caveman, which gave Kansas an idea. For her feature film debut, Kansas would make a silly slasher film set in prehistoric times. At only 17, Kansas wrote, produced, and directed her first film, and Troma distributed it when she was 19. In January 2016, B.C. Butcher finally hit the scene and made history.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    When tribe leader Neandra (Leilani Fideler) learns that Dina (Miranda Robin) is sleeping with her man, she executes her. Afterward, Neandra has her fellow cavewomen dump the body, where it’s discovered by The Butcher (Dwayne Marion Johnson). The Butcher falls in love with Dina, and her spirit commands him to avenge her death by killing the tribeswomen. While Neandra thinks her man Rex (Kato Kaelin) is pure, he’s cheating with another cavewoman named Poppy (Molly Elizabeth Ring). The blind Bamba (Devyn Kawata) warns the others of The Butcher, but none believe her premonitions until it’s too late. Soon, The Butcher arrives and starts killing everyone in the tribe one by one, beginning with Rex and Poppy. Neandra and her friend Anaconda (Natasha Halevi) try to survive, but it’s only a matter before The Butcher gets them. They’re ancient history in this stone age slasher!

     

    Review

    Given that the director was still a minor then, it’s surprising how good B.C. Butcher turned out. Sure, the film has its problems, but it’s impressive for something made by a 17-year-old. First, given the low budget, the prehistoric setting helps set it apart from other slashers and is a cost-saving measure. Also, while most modern filmmakers would’ve shot digitally, Kansas decided to shoot on 16mm film, which looks incredible. The film helps bring out many colors and makes the visuals pop more than digital can. She even got help from Daniel Pearl, Tobe Hooper’s cinematographer on The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Invaders from Mars. Also, you can tell there’s a John Waters influence, with the intentionally silly gore juxtaposed with 50s doo-wop music. Just get used to hearing “Alley Oop” by The Hollywood Argyles because it’s played quite a lot throughout.

    The acting is intentionally hokey but never in a way where the cast is in on the joke. Leilani Fideler is funny as the overconfident yet incompetent tribe leader who is unintentionally responsible for her people’s deaths. Though he has no dialogue, Dwayne Marion Johnson makes for an excellent prehistoric monster, using body language to convey emotion. Kato Kaelin is a particular stand-out as he chews up every bit of scenery he can on screen. Admittedly, the kills are lame, there’s not a lot of gore, and it’s relatively tame for a Troma movie. Plus, at slightly over 50 minutes, this barely qualifies as a feature film, though it’s better than adding needless padding. Even with its flaws, it’s still impressive that a 17-year-old could get an entire movie made and released. Overall, B.C. Butcher is a silly horror comedy that shows potential for a future filmmaker.

     

    Buy B.C. Butcher from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3jgOL9h.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Evil Bong 2: King Bong (2009)

    Evil Bong 2: King Bong (2009)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Released in 2006, Evil Bong was a surprise hit for Full Moon Features, so a sequel was to follow. Charles Band announced the sequel in 2008, along with Killjoy 3, GingerDead Man 3, and Puppet Master: Axis of Evil. Band returned to direct alongside the late writer Dominic Muir, using the pseudonym August White, for the stoner sequel. Much of the original cast returned, though they could no longer afford Tommy Chong, and Brett Chukerman replaced David Weidoff. Since prolific cinematographer Mac Ahlberg retired, Charlie hired Terrance Ryker, who also shot The Haunted Casino and Dangerous Worry Dolls. They hired Jeffrey S. Farley for the makeup effects, who earned an Emmy nomination for his work on Babylon 5. While the last film was a mix of horror and weed humor, this sequel would lean further into stoner comedy. In July 2009, Evil Bong 2: King Bong hit DVD shelves worldwide.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”55″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Months after the last film, Allistair (Brett Chukerman) visits Larnell (John Patrick Jordan) at his apartment to catch up. The Evil Bong’s effects are lingering as Bachman (Mitch Eakins) has narcolepsy and Brett (Brian Lloyd) is obese. Additionally, Larnell has lost all sexual inhibitions and humps anything near him, including Brett’s girlfriend Luann (Robin Sydney). The guys get the delivery guy Rabbit (Sonny Carl Davis) to accompany them to the Amazon to find answers. They run into Velicity (Amy Paffrath), who’s working with Larnell’s grandpa Cyril (Jacob Witkin) to study some potent marijuana. She believes the weed could be used for medicinal purposes, while Cyril wants to sell it to the highest bidder. Unfortunately, Cyril and Rabbit use the weed to resurrect Eebee (Michelle Mais), only to be taken by the Poontang Tribe. Our heroes must battle with Eebee’s former mate, King Bong (Michael Shepperd).

     

    Review

    If you’ve seen the first one, you should know what to expect from Evil Bong 2: King Bong. This sequel is more of the same, but some slight improvements made here make this more tolerable. Moving the action out of the apartment and into the jungle adds variety and makes it stand out. Also, Brett Chukerman is a welcome replacement for the nerdy Allistair, making the character more of a snob. Amy Paffrath’s Velicity is an excellent addition to the series, offering plenty of charm and high energy. Sonny Carl Davis always looks like he’s having a good time, and Jacob Witkin has some of the best lines. The new villain, King Bong, has an excellent design, and Michael Shepperd gives him tons of personality. His performance reminds me of Michael Sonye as Uncle Impie from Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama.

    Before you go rushing to pick up the DVD, don’t expect the quality of 90’s Full Moon. The sets still look cheap, there’s an abundance of CGI, and most of the acting is pretty shaky. Anyone hoping for blood and more horror like the first film will be disappointed with this sequel. This movie is like an extended R-rated sitcom without the studio audience or the pauses for laughter. Most of the humor relies on marijuana, penises, obesity, and sex, and it’s pretty juvenile and outstays its welcome. Still, this movie moves much faster than the first film at roughly the same runtime. Plus, with this film opening on a recap of the original, you could skip to this one. Overall, Evil Bong 2: King Bong is more of the same as the first but is slightly better.

     

    Buy Evil Bong 2: King Bong from:

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Fear Town, USA (2014)

    Fear Town, USA (2014)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    In 1999, comedians Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh founded the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) theater. The comedy troupe helped launch the careers of Aubrey Plaza, Andrew Daly, Nick Kroll, Ben Schwartz, and Donald Glover. In 2006, aspiring filmmaker Brandon Bassham joined UCB and directed several comedy shorts for them and College Humor. With a cast and crew consisting of UCB players, Bassham shot his horror spoof around New York. Around 2013, Bassham launched an IndieGogo campaign to fund his first full-length feature film and managed to raise $6,000. Through an actor friend, Amber Nelson, Bassham met with Troma founder/president Lloyd Kaufman and struck a deal. Troma provided extra funds for the film, about $4,000 for a total of $10,000, in exchange for distribution rights. In 2014, Troma released Brandon Bassham’s directorial debut, Fear Town, USA.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    It’s St. Blevin’s Day, and everyone who’s anybody will be partying it up, getting drunk, and crushing pussy. Everyone except for friends Mark (Mark Vigeant), Dan (Dan Kenkel), Myles (Jon Bershad), and Andrew (James McCarthy). While the guys play some D&D, bullies Brad (Dan Black) and Todd (Matt B. Mayer) boast about attending the party. Determined to lose their virginity, the boys set out to get to the party only to get lost. Meanwhile, friends Jen (Anna Callegari), Kelly (Cody Lindquist), and Rachel (Amber Nelson) also attend the party looking for fun. While 17-year-old Dana (Dana Clinkman) is looking for her online boyfriend, a group of uninvited guests decides to camp out. Little do our partygoers know that an escaped mental patient is killing anyone he comes in contact with. This St. Blevin’s Day will be remembered as our happy-go-lucky partiers try to survive Fear Town, USA.

     

    Review

    That synopsis only covers so much of Fear Town, USA, as so much more happens here. This movie feels like Brandon Bassham threw everything at the wall and saw what stuck to mixed results. There are vengeful spirits, demonic cults, nosy psychics, absent-minded cops, contemplative stoners, and even The Devil. With the many central characters, each plotline feels like its story could be a separate movie. Unfortunately, this approach makes it difficult to have a character to follow since there are so many to remember. In addition, not a single scene goes by without at least one or two gags or jokes happening. Plenty of these jokes land, and some don’t, but there are so many that it’s overwhelming. The movie also occasionally runs into the issue of dragging a joke out so long that it’s no longer funny. Thankfully, it’s not to Adult Swim levels of anti-humor.

    The acting is mostly decent, though plenty of the actors play their roles like they’re in a comedy. Thankfully, it’s not to the same degree as Llamageddon, where most of the acting was intentionally bad. Plus, unlike that movie, some jokes work, such as one with the killer having trouble with a bow and arrow. There’s plenty of crude humor involving bodily fluids, sexual references, and using slurs that refer to one’s orientation. While there aren’t many, some kills, including a knife going through a guy’s groin into a woman’s head, are gruesome. Also, so many odd moments, especially the ending, will leave you baffled and wondering what you’re watching. Still, even at 90 minutes, the movie feels padded to reach that length, and 20 minutes could’ve been trimmed. Overall, Fear Town, USA, is a bit disjointed, but it has some decent humor that you won’t soon forget.

     

    Buy Fear Town, USA, from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZptVoj.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama 2 (2022)

    Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama 2 (2022)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Since its release in 1988, Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama has become a huge cult favorite. Director David DeCoteau continued working with Charles Band into the Full Moon era, directing almost 30 movies for the studio. Some of the more notable films DeCoteau made included Puppet Master III: Toulon’s Revenge, Beach Babes From Beyond, and Shrieker. After directing Puppet Master: Axis of Evil, Decoteau made the 1313 series and family films like A Talking Cat!?! In 2019, Charles Band announced The Deadly 10, a series of 10 movies linked to the studio’s past. Chief among them was a sequel to the 1988 cult classic with DeCoteau returning to the director’s chair. Unfortunately, plans were put on hold due to the pandemic, but the project resumed in 2022. With Brinke Stevens directing, Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama 2 premiered on Full Moon’s streaming service in December 2022.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”40″ bar_bg_color=”#E09900″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    At the Pi-Epsilon sorority, sisters Sarah (Jessie Gill) and Tiffany (Katie O’Neill) are desperate to recruit new pledges. Luckily for them, Ginger (Audrey Neal) and Devon (Hannah Tullett) are looking to join alongside the rebellious Bitsy (Glory Rodriguez). Their housemother, Auntie Snake (Kelli Maroney), warns them about the initiation ritual, given what happened in 1988. However, Sarah wants to maintain tradition, so she sends Ginger, Devon, and Bitsy to the ill-fated bowling alley. Along with Bart (Luka Parente), Turkey (Nathan Blair), and Dinger (Justin Lupo), the girls have to steal a trophy. While throwing a little bowling party, Bitsy and Turkey stumble across the trophy, only for Turkey to accidentally break it. This brings out The Imp (Derek Jeremiah Reid), who grants their wishes but with disastrous consequences. It’s happening all over again as this new batch of would-be victims contends with the mischievous imp.

     

    Review

    The original Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama isn’t what I’d call a good movie, but it was enjoyably trashy. Sure, the story was nonsensical, the acting was mediocre, and the effects were shoddy, but it had charm. On the other hand, the sequel has none of the low-budget charms that made the original enjoyable to watch. Before going into my criticisms, there are some nice things I can say about this unfortunate sequel. For starters, Kelli Maroney is easily the movie’s high point, giving an entertainingly snarky and cynical performance. Also, while Michael Sonye is missed, Derek Jeremiah Reid does a decent job doing a similar voice as The Imp. He offers the same corny jokes and off-color remarks you’d expect from the character and does it reasonably well. Also, Brinke Stevens and Michelle Bauer have fun cameos as ghosts watching the film play out.

    Unfortunately, that’s where any of the positives end because the movie, as a whole, really does not work. For one, it’s more or less a remake of the original, with almost nothing new added aside from different characters. Also, it says a lot when the puppet from the 1988 original looks better than the puppet here. With this, everything feels flat and generic, with no dynamic look, no interesting camerawork, and shoddy CGI. Say what you will about David DeCoteau’s directing, but he at least gave the first film some style. While the cast looks like they’re having fun, none of the characters are likable or stand out. Plus, the fact that this is barely over an hour while the original was 80 minutes exemplifies its disappointing nature. Despite its best intentions, Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama 2 is a huge letdown from the first film.

     

    Buy Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama 2 from:

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Vegas in Space (1991)

    Vegas in Space (1991)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    After making Super-8 films as a teenager, Phillip R. Ford enrolled in San Francisco State University’s film program. While attending class, Ford met Philip Mills, better known as Doris Fish, a drag queen originally from Sydney. One night, Ford showed Fish and her wife, Lori Naslund, Trouble in Paradise, a Super-8 short he had filmed back in 1981. Doris was so impressed with Ford’s short film that she agreed to star in his next project, Rollercoaster to Hell. The student movie got tons of attention and was shown on KTVU’s Creature Features, where Ford announced his next film. Doris had aspirations of making it big in Hollywood and pitched Ford an idea for an outer-space musical comedy. Filming lasted between 1983 and 1984, but post-production took an additional seven years due to a lack of funds. After everything was said and done, Vegas in Space finally premiered in October 1991.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”60″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    In the 23rd century, Captain Dan Tracey (Doris Fish) and his Space Cadets receive a critical mission. Vel Croford, Empress of Earth (Miss X), instructs them to travel to the planet Kleetoeres to solve a jewel heist. However, only women are allowed on Kleetoeres, so Tracey and his men must take sex reassignment pills to blend in. Now, as women, Captain Tracy Daniels, Lt. Sheila Shadows (Ramona Fischer), and Lt. Debbie Dane (Lori Naslund) visit the Empress. According to Empress Nueva Gabor (Ginger Quest), her Girllinium gems, which maintain the planet’s orbit, have been stolen. The prime suspect is Veneer (Miss X), the planet’s queen of police, who agrees to work with Daniels. Helping out the ladies is Nueva’s Vice Empress, Princess Angel (Tippi), who secretly has an agenda. Who stole the Girllinium gems, will the ladies stop them, and what else will happen in Vegas in Space?

     

    Review

    Vegas in Space certainly earns its cult status just for how weird it is, especially with its intentionally tacky aesthetic. This movie was a labor of love, from the homemade sets and colorful costumes to the intentionally cheesy tone. Even if this was initially made as a vanity project for Doris Fish, you could tell the filmmakers cared. They spent the better part of a decade trying to get this film made, and that commitment is admirable. While made for a small budget, the filmmakers created a distinct, albeit tacky style that lends to the movie’s charm. The performances are over-the-top and campy, but that’s the vibe they were going for, and it works. The late Doris Fish shines as Dan Tracy/Tracey Daniels, the enigmatic leader who’s both strong and sassy. Her cohorts, Ramona Fisher and Lori Naslund, are appropriately ditzy and bubbly, which goes well with Fish’s attitude.

    However, as goofy as the movie is, and while the people involved had fun, it’s a bit of a mess. For a film that’s 85 minutes long, there’s a lot of padding to reach feature length. There are several scenes where nothing plot-related happens, and characters talk endlessly, dragging the pacing to a crawl. Some jokes land, but unless you’re familiar with drag culture, most of the humor will be lost on you. It’s also weird to call this a musical since there’s only one musical number toward the movie’s end. Plus, the film plays it a bit too safe, considering it’s made by drag queens for drag queens. If you’re a fan of campy sci-fi, you might get some enjoyment here, but there are better options. Overall, Vegas in Space might appeal more to drag fans, but it’s only watchable as a curiosity.

     

    Buy Vegas in Space from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UUvQPb.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • The VelociPastor (2018)

    The VelociPastor (2018)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    While attending the School of Visual Arts in 2010, aspiring filmmaker Brendan Steere got an idea from an unlikely source. At some point, his phone autocorrected “velociraptor” to “veloci pastor,” which gave him the inspiration for a short film. Steere made a short film consisting of fake grindhouse trailers, one of which was for a movie called The VelociPastor. The video got tons of attention on YouTube, which inspired Steere to adapt the trailer into a full-length feature film. Between 2011 to 2016, he tried to raise funds for the movie through Kickstarter and Seed&Spark, but neither proved successful. Luckily, a private investor who was friends with his mother provided $35,000 to get the film going. The movie premiered in Portland in 2017, and eventually, Wild Eye Releasing picked up the distribution rights in 2018. In 2019, The VelociPastor hit DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming services across the country.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”60″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    While traveling through China on a spiritual journey, pastor Doug Jones (Gregory James Cohan) stumbles across an ancient artifact. Jones accidentally gets infected by the relic, which allegedly turns people into the “Dragon Warrior.” After having a series of nightmares, Jones wanders into a forest, turns into a dinosaur, and attacks some thugs. He wakes up in the bed of local prostitute Carol (Alyssa Kempinski), who explains what happened the previous night. She suggests Doug can use his powers to eliminate crime, but Doug doesn’t want to be responsible for killing people. That changes when Carol’s pimp Frankie Mermaid (Fernando Pacheco de Castro) confesses to Doug he killed his parents. After eviscerating Mermaid, Doug decides to kill evildoers despite objections from Father Stewart (Daniel Steere). Soon, a group of ninjas led by Wei Chan (Yang Jiechang) kidnaps Carol, forcing Doug into velociraptor action.

     

    Review

    Depending on your reaction to the title and premise, The VelociPastor will be either fantastic or stupid. This film is nothing more than a cheesy B-movie, and it mostly succeeds at being an entertaining one. Much like the original fake trailer, Brendan Steere filmed this in an old 1970s grindhouse movie style. There are film scratches, the occasional cigarette burn, and title cards in place of missing footage. Something tells me the filmmakers didn’t shoot this movie on film, but these touches help make it stand out. Also, while the movie is meant to be more tongue-in-cheek, every actor plays their parts completely straight. Greg Cohan makes for a great leading man, his performance reminiscent of Lon Chaney Jr. from The Wolf Man. Alyssa Kempinski also stands out as the hooker with a heart of gold and has excellent chemistry with Cohan.

    The movie looks pretty good for a $30,000 budget, with some moody lighting and decent practical effects. While not the greatest, the gore effects are decent, with plenty of throat-slashing and blood sprays. As for the dinosaur itself, it helps that the filmmakers took the Jaws approach and didn’t show the suit much. When you get a complete look at the costume, it doesn’t look good, but it adds to the charm. Thankfully, you don’t see the dinosaur until the last 10 minutes, and you’re so engrossed that you don’t mind. Usually, I’m not a fan of intentionally bad movies because they typically feel hollow and artificial. In this case, it feels like the people behind the film cared and wanted to make a fun, dumb movie. Overall, The VelociPastor isn’t going to set the world on fire, but it’s enjoyable if you like cheesy movies.

     

    Buy The VelociPastor from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3f6W4y5.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Cry Uncle! (1971)

    Cry Uncle! (1971)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Today, most people know John G. Avildsen for directing classics like Rocky, The Karate Kid, and Lean on Me. Like many great filmmakers, Avildsen came from humble beginnings, having been an assistant director for Arthur Penn and Otto Preminger. His directorial debut was 1969’s Turn on to Love, followed by Guess What We Learned in School Today? in 1970. That same year, his film Joe, starring Peter Boyle and a then-unknown Susan Sarandon, was a surprise hit. On a $106,000 budget, the film grossed over $19 million and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. While working on Joe, Avildsen became friends with a young college graduate named Lloyd Kaufman, who was getting his start. They decided to start working on a film based on Michael Brett’s novel Lie a Little, Die a Little. In August 1971, Avildsen’s Cry Uncle made its way onto the big screen.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Private investigator Jake Masters (Allen Garfield) meets with Cora Merrill (Madeleine Le Roux), whose boss has a job for him. Her boss is eccentric billionaire Jason Dominic (David Kirk), who wants Jake to help him with someone who’s blackmailing him. A cocktail waitress named Lucille Reynolds died, and it’s believed Dominic killed her because she tried extorting him for $50,000. With Merrill and his nephew/assistant Keith (Devin Goldenberg), Masters has to figure out just what is going on. While Jake takes a more civil approach to getting information, Cora gets violent instead, making him nervous. Along the way, Masters tracks down various prostitutes connected to Reynolds and sleeps with them for information. Before long, Masters and Merrill start a relationship despite her previous marriage, but things seem out of place. Will Jake be able to crack the case, or will he end up having to cry uncle?

     

    Review

    Before going forward, I should mention that I had never heard of the book, let alone read it. Admittedly, if this film didn’t have the talent attached that it did, Cry Uncle would’ve been largely forgotten. However, because future Oscar winner John G. Avildsen directed it, this film is worth seeking out for curious viewers. On that note, it’s also worth watching to see an early appearance by the late Paul Sorvino as a cop. Aside from that, this film is pretty clunky, with many jokes not landing and a heavy reliance on nudity. To the film’s credit, the cast is filled with some decent performances, particularly from Garfield and Le Roux. Garfield sells the part of a snarky detective who is good in bed despite his appearance. Le Roux makes for a great femme fatale and works great off of Garfield and Goldenberg.

    The film tries to parody many tropes in noir and detective films but rarely does it land. For instance, there’s a running gag about correctly spelling someone’s name early on, and it gets old fast. Also, another running gag involves a character with the last name “Caulk” that everyone constantly brings up. It’s unfortunate because there is an engaging mystery going on that you want to follow along with. Sure, it can get convoluted with how so many people betray each other, but that’s par for the course. Granted, some jokes push some boundaries, but those end up being the funniest just for the shock value. Much like The Battle of Love’s Return, it’s a silly comedy made by a first-timer who went further. Overall, Cry Uncle may not be one of the best comedies, but it’s one of the more interesting.

     

    Buy Cry Uncle from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TQlShi.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]