Independent Charm Shines

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MOVIE REVIEW
Don’t Tell Larry
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Genre: Comedy, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director(s): Greg Porper, John Schimke
Writer(s): Greg Porper, John Schimke
Cast: Patty Guggenheim, Billy Blair, Bruce Davis, Erica Muse, Kiel Kennedy, Molly Franco, Heath Allyn, Kenneth Mosley, Sokrates Frantzis, Ronda Dale Kirk, David Schwartzbaum
Where To Watch: world premiere at the Austin Film Festival on October 27, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: DON’T TELL LARRY whisks you into the whirlwind realm of corporate shenanigans. At the outset, you might be tricked into thinking this is just another comedic portrayal of office life. Oh, how wrong you'd be! What unfolds is a saga of ambition, deception, and mystery that will keep you glued to your screen. Before diving in, make sure you understand that this is an indie film through and through; an unpolished finish gives the film unmistakable charm.

Now, let's talk, Susan (Patty Guggenheim.) Ah, Susan, with her sky-high aspirations and a penchant for plotting. When she embarks on a seemingly innocent plan centered around a retirement gathering, little does she know the uproar that awaits. And just when you think you've got the storyline pegged, the twists will have you second-guessing her every move.

Enter Patrick (Kenneth Mosley), Susan's endearingly odd colleague. This duo dives deep, attempting to assemble the enigmatic ties to move this narrative forward. Their escapades- from chuckle-worthy drug test escapades to the sheer panic of getting locked in someone else's vehicle- form the beating heart of the narrative.

While DON’T TELL LARRY proudly flaunts its indie genre, it promises a bucketload of unexpected emotions. One moment, you're laughing; the next, you're flushed with the eerie undertones infused into the film.

Guggenheim's Susan sparkles, delivering a captivating performance with every scene. However, not to be overshadowed, Kiel Kennedy's Larry blends just the right mix of humor and charisma, making him an enigma viewers will love to decipher.

Behind the scenes, Greg Porper and John Schimke, the writer/director duo, pull all the right strings. Their vision breathes life into the plot, transforming mundane moments into entertainment. This narrative, carefully crafted over years and years, unravels the concept of karma in a way that prompts the audience to reflect on the ripple effect of their choices, no matter how minuscule.

The ensemble cast, spearheaded by Ed Begley Jr. and Dot-Marie Jones, injects an additional layer of gravitas into the film. Guggenheim's innate ability to tickle the funny bone, Mosley's versatile performance as Patrick, and Tina Parker's seasoned skills make this an unforgettable ensemble performance.

DON’T TELL LARRY is a mix of humor, suspense, and reflection that feels like your friend filmed it on their iPhone but still shines bright. While I wish it had pushed the comedic envelope further, it's undeniably a gem in indie cinema.

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[photo courtesy of PRO KEY ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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