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NohoDave
Reviews
Checkout (2006)
Exceptional comedy all around
This short comedy is a gem in every respect - a great premise, a well-written script, strong acting and high production values. It's easily one of the best student films I've seen.
We follow three intertwined story lines, each featuring a character who aspires to a lofty calling in life. Yet each encounters indifference, even ridicule, from the people around him. "Black Shadow" just graduated from Ninja academy, and is working at a convenience store until his big break in the Ninja world opens up. Is he really a martial arts master? His only apparent skill is disappearing in a puff of smoke, which is annoying the customers. Mike is a big shot in a fraternity, and claims to have mastered the esoteric art of the beer run, which he's now trying to teach to a frat brother novice. Joe, the convenience store janitor, tries his best to spread rumors that he's a psychotic killer, but is just too nice a guy to convince anybody he's dangerous.
Are they really extraordinary people, or are they just living in a fantasy world? We only find out in the conclusion, where the story lines come together in a hysterical climax, in which all the characters show us what they're made of. The director and writer of this strange and brilliant gem have certainly shown us that they've got what it takes - and like their characters, they just might get a shot at the big time.
Welcome to Earth (2005)
Lame junk from start to finish
"Thinking's important. Every man's gotta think sometimes." With sparkling dialog like this, you know the writer's in over his head. The plot: aliens are coming to earth tonight, and some people get together for a party to celebrate. A number of characters come to the realization that their lives aren't all they should be. This movie aspires to be The Ice Storm for a new generation, but never quite gets off the ground.
The male characters range from shallow to pretentious. The females fare a bit better, but not by much. Kate Orsini is the only credible actor in a sea of nobodies; but the real problem here is the vapid dialog that makes most of the characters two-dimensional and unsympathetic.
And this movie features some of the worst cinematography I've ever seen; the cameraman acts drunk, constantly fiddling with the camera, particularly the zoom button. If this movie shows up at a film festival near you, avoid it at all costs.