Existential Crisis With a Humorous Twist

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MOVIE REVIEW
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 8m
Director(s): Michael Friberg
Writer(s): Michael Friberg
Cast: Lehi Falepapalangi, Bridget Elsabe Galanis, Annie Flowers, Cameron Sawyer
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Dances With Films

RAVING REVIEW: In Michael Friberg’s latest film, the ordinary and cosmic collide with light-hearted humor, spotlighting our smallness against the vast universe. Anchoring this narrative is Peter Kleebold, played by Lehi Falepapalangi, whose everyday life spirals into an existential crisis after a cosmic revelation shakes his reality. This blend of comedy and deep reflection makes for an engaging viewing experience.

Peter’s journey is less about the stars and more about the internal universe, as Friberg, who is exploring global photography spanning from corporate juggernauts to pressing international issues, channels his visual storytelling into his films. His skill in capturing still imagery translates into framing scenes that deepen the narrative’s dive into themes, served with humor. This approach entertains and provokes thought, making the philosophical underpinnings accessible and impactful.

Bridget Esabe Galanis's character, Nadia, brings a grounding presence to her portrayal. Alongside Galanis, Cameron Sawyer and Annie Flowers contribute considerable depth and humor, navigating the complexities of human connections amidst existential musings. The ensemble's interactions amplify the film’s thematic resonance, enriching the story with their varied backgrounds.

As Friberg notes, “One morning in 2019, at about 6:30 am Pacific Standard Time, I sat down on the toilet in the second bathroom that my wife affectionately called my "poop dungeon."This humorous yet profound setting effectively highlights the film’s central theme—the oddity of daily life when cast against the universe’s boundless backdrop. This moment planted the seeds for the exploration we see unfold in the film.

The narrative's strength is amplified by its setting and cinematography, which cleverly juxtapose mundane daily occurrences with the vast, unknowable cosmos. Friberg uses this contrast to full effect, creating a visual dialogue between Peter's small-scale life and the overarching enormity of the universe. This method enriches the film’s existential themes and injects a unique aesthetic that makes the ordinary scenes resonate with a deeper meaning. The settings are captured to highlight the isolation and absurdity of human endeavors when viewed through the lens of the cosmos. Friberg’s directorial touch is evident in his blending of humor with profound themes.

By weaving existential reflections with comedic elements, the film offers a medium for viewers to contemplate their place in the vast universe. It parallels Peter’s journey in a way that is unique to his character and universally relatable, inviting audiences into a space of laughter and reflection.

Unfortunately, the film's biggest hurdle is its runtime; shorts are, by definition, short, but clocking in at just 8 minutes doesn’t allow the audience to connect with the characters or the story enough to leave that lasting impact one would want. Hopefully, this was a proof of concept for a larger world that Friberg plans on exploring (pun intended.)

Friberg’s film stands out through its adept fusion of comedic elements with deep existential themes. The narrative is enriched by robust performances and thoughtful direction, appealing to those who appreciate films that entertain and make them think. As Peter Kleebold navigates his existential challenges, the film does more than entertain—it sparks contemplation of our search for meaning amidst the cosmic vastness.

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