The nonconformist black comedy “Little Death” is an unusual film from start to finish, but I was absolutely enamored with the style and wit of the script. Directed by Jack Begert (who also co-wrote the screenplay with Dani Goffstein), this project has a Chuck Palahniuk vibe that’s matched with a cool visual storytelling style that a certain segment of movie lovers are going to adore.
Martin (David Schwimmer) is a Los Angeles based screenwriter smack in the middle of a midlife crisis. He’s struggling, and nothing seems to be going his way. Cut to a pair of druggie taco truck owners (Talia Ryder, Dominic Fike), a missing backpack, and a tiny lost dog, and this tragicomedy goes places you’ll never expect.
The story and film changes dramatically after a shocking incident, making this feel sort of like two movies in one (and each works equally well). The vibe shifts yet also remains the same, and Begert employs surreal elements that can feel jarring (especially the A.I. animation). This is an acquired taste for sure, but viewers who stick it out through the first half hour will have obviously found their tribe that equally adores this type of storytelling.
The film is perfectly cast, particularly Schwimmer, who is the idea actor for this material. Fike and Ryder are good too, and the supporting cast (which includes Gaby Hoffmann, Jena Malone, and Angela Sarafyan) round out the talented roster.
“Little Death” is enjoyably cynical, even if the story can feel a bit too twisty. After all, along with lofty Hollywood dreams come plenty of Earth-shattering disappointments.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 