Director and co-writer Tim Hautekiet‘s “Me, Myself & the Void” is a charming low-budget feature that, much like its lead character, gradually grows on you. This indie dark comedy offers a fresh perspective on personal crises and self-introspection, weaving a narrative that feels like a hipster take on “A Christmas Carol.” The film is rich with deeper themes of self-discovery and redemption but delivers its message with a blend of quirky humor and heart.
At the center of the story is Jack (Jack De Sena), a down-on-his-luck stand-up comedian whose life is in disarray. With his career tanking, a recent breakup with his girlfriend Mia (Kelly Marie Tran), and a reliance on his parents to make ends meet, Jack finds himself in quite the precarious position: he may be dead. The film begins with him face down on his bathroom floor, trapped in a mysterious void where he must confront pivotal moments from his past to understand how he ended up there.
The hyper-fast cutting style, while at times agitating, reflects Jack’s chaotic life and enhances the storytelling in an unconventional way. It’s a different approach that may not resonate with everyone, but it adds a unique flair to the narrative. Through his interactions with the projection of his best friend Chris (Chris W. Smith), Jack embarks on a journey of self-reflection, revisiting encounters throughout his life that highlight his thoughtlessness, pettiness, and irritable nature. While he’s not an easy character to like, Hautekiet transforms him into someone relatable, allowing viewers to see the humanity behind his flaws.
“Me, Myself & the Void” may have limited commercial appeal, but it will undoubtedly speak to a niche audience and those who understand the power of self-reflection and the possibility of change. It may not be perfect, but the film’s emotional depth, earnest sentiment, and overall heart certainly is in the right place.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 