Late Watch

I was in New York this past week and was able to secure tickets to the premier of Late Watch at the Tribeca Film Festival. Not really knowing what to expect I found myself laughing out loud several times throughout the film. More importantly I wasn't alone. I noticed that the audience agreed with me more more often than not that this is truly a funny film about the quirky existence of the night watchmen. The in depth character development and progression of the story made sense and the interaction between the characters was hilarious. I feel that this film fits right in with other "stoner" comedies like Clerks and Dazed and Confused that should be a staple in every college dorm room.

This film is fun, quirky, and slick. I couldn't believe it was an independent film. The quality of the print is exceptional. I missed New York when I saw it. Fluid Eye Films did a great job of moving us through the story while maintaining a commitment to characters. All of which are extremely off their rocks. I laughed alot and I was visually challenged as well. My only critical comment is that I wanted even more of the character's craziness. I very much appreciated the detail in location, character and plot. I can't wait to own it on DVD!

It's not often that I see an independent film (and I have seen a lot) look so clean and at the same time play so funny. There always seems to be something off. Henry S. Miller's LATE WATCH proves there is hope for the independent thinking filmmaker. The camera moves with ease as we follow Travis (Stephen Daniels), the new late watchman at the warehouse, through an introduction to his collective of strange and perverse colleagues. We are navigated in detail through the warehouse observing the hilarious rituals of the staff over a twelve-hour period. While some films would gloss over character and focus on stereotypical story lines, LATE WATCH takes it time, engulfing us with "filmic" visuals (no stock footage here), which enables the audience to feel as if we are on shift as well. There are plenty of laughs, jumps and sensual overtones combined with a classic and gritty New York realism. It looks great. It sounds perfect(not the norm for independents). Look for this one soon.

Among the many things I liked about Late Watch, a dark comedy following the perambulations and conversations of night shift watchmen and women, I was most gratified to watch actors who obviously enjoyed being actors. It seemed they were all just shy of turning to the camera and doing their best Cheshire cat impressions. Indeed, most of the performances were believable, honest and sincere, which in comedy is not as easy as one might think. Particularly the two leads, Travis and Otto, whose serious discussions on matters inane and unusual brought out-loud laughs to the theater. The pacing was excellent with quick dialog broken by spurts of tedium. Exactly how a night shift guarding a warehouse would be. And it is a treat for those who enjoy playing the reference game, with tidbits of philosophy, pop culture and literary analysis popping up with crisp effect. All in all a funny and entertaining picture which I very much recommend.

I was lucky enough to catch this film's premier at the Tribeca Film Festival and was extremely impressed. The performances and directing were in perfect harmony with the writing. Nothing was overplayed or unbelievable which helped to keep the audience submerged in the film as we lived vicariously through the main character Travis (Stephen Daniels). The quirkiness of the characters were fascinating and real and relative which made it hysterical in it's plausibility This is the kind of film that you laugh with, at and IN because everyone has either met people like these or have been in similar situations. Thumbs up and good work to the filmmakers.