While, on first viewing, this film may seem a combination of other director's styles (Peter Jackson, Sam Raimi, etc.) Frank Grow proves he is his own monster, and his creativity is original. The film's plot centers around Manhattan, in 1995. All mental hospitals must cut their patient load by 1/5. LaRue (Will Keenan) is sent out onto the streets with a chronic reading disorder, and sent to the Love Hotel (where most of the inmate are being held). There he falls in love with a mute girl, who's obsessive mother dominates her life. To top this off, LaRue is given a roommate with turrets syndrome, and is chased by a prehistoric worm that inhabits peoples bodies and mutates them. This film is, to say the least, a crazy piece of work. Brilliant cinema, and creative genius at its best. The film's story is original, and dazzling. The FX, though budgeted, are impressive and effective. And the acting and scripting of the film is seamless. The film begins with craziness and never lets the viewer rest, which is the film's charm. And the message at the end of the film, amidst all the gore and drama, is beautiful. While there is tons of Hollywood waste dumped into theaters each year it is a shame to see a talent like Frank Grow, and a brilliant film such as this over-looked. This obscure gem has been hidden for well over four years now. The producer of the film, Anthony Bergman, actually gave me a copy of this film in late 2000 to view. Seek it out if you find it near you.
