Category: Comedy

Comedy Drama

“Theater Camp”

By Brett_G on

6.9

This would have made a killer double feature alongside “Bottoms.” The characters here are insane, but by god are they fun. Sadly, no one comes out of the lake or woods with a large bladed weapon to start taking people out. The villain here is private equity and preppy kids. The underdog vibes here are strong. The overall vibes are strong. It’s a musically inclined twist on “Wet Hot American Summer.” Hits every note you want it to, and given the reaction of the crowd I enjoyed this one alongside, it really nails the aesthetic of real life theater camp.

Also, no one plays a loveable dumb guy like Jimmy Tatro. Between this and “The Machine,” he’s building his career on this pigeon hole.

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Action Comedy

“Bottoms”

By Brett_G on

7.3

Very similar to “Shiva Baby.” Rachel Sennott is the master of the awkward comedy. “Fight Club” meets “Not Another Teen Movie.” There’s a lot of social commentary going on here, and I loved the caricatures here. Marshawn Lynch definitely had a second career in education if the whole football thing didn’t work out. Between this and his cameos in “The League,” can we please get more of him and less of Vin Diesel?

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Comedy Drama

“Jules”

By Brett_G on

7.2

Wonderfully weird.

The design of the spacecraft and extra-terrestrial are perfect. Just normal enough but just strange enough to make it comedic. The unlikely team of humans coming together to discover a newfound purpose in life was a nice change of pace. It’s as if E.T. had the elderly as friends instead of kids fresh off a divorce. A really well made, adorable little movie.

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Action Comedy Indie

“Quicksand”

By Brett_G on

7.4

A surprisingly great buddy comedy/adventure, a la “The Hangover!”

Similar to “Deer Camp ’86” and “Terrifier,” I loved the authenticity of this film. Especially the easily recognizable landmarks as the dynamic duo made their way across the mitten state to track down the ring. The hijinks were much more creative and packed a much bigger punch than I expected. As described in the Q & A with the director afterwards, this crew was mostly learning as they went when it came to feature filmmaking. Had I not been told that, I would have never guessed it. There’s a finesse here that reflects a much more seasoned operation. Bravo to the filmmakers for pulling off a truly fun, funny, and impactful film! It’s festival accolades are well earned, and we’re lucky to have such a bustling movie scene in West Michigan.

Although not yet on streaming, you can find this one on Amazon/iTunes at the moment. The Vogue Theater and Celebration! Cinema spoil us here in West Michigan when it comes to limited releases and special events.

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