Independent film thrives on the internet, and "Gorilla Interrupted" is the "Clerks" of the current generation. That said, nobody sits down to watch "Gorilla Interrupted" with extremely high expectations. But in a world where every multi-hundred-million-dollar Hollywood extravaganza ends up being a sandblasted disappointment. "Gorilla Interrupted" is a cute, fun, entertaining, and extremely original film that hits its target audience. A generation of Sci-Fi savvy film buffs that grew up in the 80's and 90's.
The story is a charming blend of Sci-Fi and comedy, influenced by 80's nostalgia, and kitbashed into a decent narrative. The surprisingly charismatic cast/crew truly shine. Most notable is Rich Evans, who's Herculean threshold for pain inspires a performance that is like a triforce of Jerry Lewis, Rick Moranis, and Marlon Brando. Likewise, Mike Stoklasa and Jay Bauman cast themselves as real characters, and not just kneejerk "let's make a movie" caricatures. Garrett Gilchrist's Safari Hunter seems a bit out of place and over exuberant at times, but adds texture to the film. Lisa Renley provides a controlled cuteness that balances the melange of a cast.
The production value is as high as it needs to be. Any better and your expectations would elevate, any worse and it would be distracting. It is a film that satisfyingly exceeds the sum it's parts. At a comfortable running time of 68 minutes, it does not feel stretched, and ends before it becomes irritating.
The latest release of "Gorilla Interrupted" also includes a fascinating retrospective on the 7 day production, and takes you through the crew's communal film-making experience. In the end you get the feeling that all you need to get a fun film is an empty house, a camera, and the absence of parental supervision.
