I found myself quite emotionally involved with the characters in this film, which was a surprise considering I took a blind chance at Madtown with no expectations, analysis or prior reading of reviews, especially as the acting from the outset, outside the comedy club, was quite poor and there really isn't anything mad or comical about this film.
The title of this film is quite misleading as there's no real craziness until the misshapen twists at the end, and considering the main protagonist aspires to be a stand-up comedian, there's nothing particularly funny about it either, in fact, the whole film is rather somber, profound and really, surprisingly, quite loving.
The main juxtaposition that this file poses is the relationship between 'Denny' and his sister, who is quite angry, vindictive and scary, and his new relationship with his colleagues at the restaurant, and then seeing Denny transform into a caring and gentle individual, who is still confused by the shelled-off cocoon of his old self, and it was quite lovely seeing these shackles being broken away from, but with the ever-brooding and rearing presence of his sister after she is released from jail, impeding and affecting his freedom and ability to be happy, even denying himself some sweet and redeeming love in the process.
Madtown is mostly well acted, as well as being rather endearing and well thought out. OK, there are some plodding moments and I didn't find the comedy moments funny at all due to the sinister atmosphere always hanging around, but it's a well played and quite engrossing film nonetheless.
