Overtime

Even now a few hours later, I'm still not sure what to give this movie. I went into it expecting it only to be stupid and ridiculous, because what else is a movie starring one-third of Head Cheese (Head counts as as third!) going to be? But it was far more ridiculous than even I expected.

But in a stupidly, goofy, surprisingly entertaining way.

Don't get me wrong; this isn't a "good" movie. The acting is . . . well, it stars Al Snow. The dialogue, man, the dialogue. It's something. Something that you can easily imagine the two writers being high as heck and laughing their butts off as they write it (though I give credit; there are some very clever lines scattered about). The IMDb estimate for the budget is $5,000 (yes, thousand). And that shows.

But damn if Al doesn't do his damnedest to bring his domestic yet shadily employed character to life, and John Wells and his engaging smile delivers some of the cheesiest, stupidest freaking jokes and inappropriate laughter with a sociopath's sincerity and charm that's hard to resist

You know those movies that people say "You just have to turn your brain off for a little while" about? The kind of B-movie that's so bad, it's ultimately good? *This* is exactly that kind of movie. Just sit back and let the only slightly above "Beavis and Butthead" humor wash over you like a (insert favorite metaphor here).

Okay, since I rate movies not based on their quality, but on how much I enjoyed them, then I guess I've got to give "Overtime" a 7/10. Because stupid as it is, I laughed my ass off through the entire thing. Sometimes at that stuff they wanted me to laugh at, sometimes not, but it was all good. In fact, of all the B-movies I've watched over the last year, this is either the best, or at least tied with (I can't believe I'm saying this) "Sharknado" (yes, I laughed my ass off through that one).

Give it a shot. If you're inclined to drink or indulge in some of the Reefer Madness, you might do that before and during the film.

I wouldn't normally call myself fortunate for getting to preview a new independent film, but I was recently asked to preview Overtime and "fortunate" is exactly what I am. Overtime, written and directed by Louisville, Ky native Matt Niehoff, sets a new standard for independent films everywhere. The bar has been raised, not only for the courageous and beautifully balanced cinematography, nor for the skillful editing alone, but, just as rare in most indie films, it's been raised for the talent owned by several of these mainly untried cast members.

The primary cast has a chemistry that sizzles, giving me the same feeling I had watching the brat pack perform together in the 80s. Thankfully, Overtime is no John Hughs film. Instead, the main cast manages to balance the absurdity in and around them with realism, and thus create believability. John Wells is perfectly cast as the ego-centric Max, and his intentionally over-the-top performance shines when countered with Al Snow's convincingly real portrayal of the more reasonable Raeff. Special kudos go, too, to actress Sebrina Siegel, who managed to bring a greater credibility to the film with her very natural delivery of some very un-natural dialogue, and who's impressive performance and genuine movements helped eliminate the possibility of a "comic book" feeling to the movie.

It wouldn't feel right without also crediting the soundtrack chosen to accompany this fun-filled ride. Simply well done. Even the highest budget indie films will have difficulty stretching to reach the bars of Overtime.

Overtime is a solid action-adventure film with some horror thrown in for good measure. The cast has amazing chemistry and top-notch performances all around. John Wells and Al Snow both shine with excellent comedic banter and action sequences. Matt Niehoff and Brian Cunningham have given us a witty, heart-pounding flick that gives us believable action, likable characters, and memorable, hilarious quips, all wrapped in a high-quality production that does Kentucky proud. Embodiment FX has done an amazing job with the makeup effects work, and the music used was absolutely perfect both in selection and placement. This film definitely deserves to be seen nationwide.

This movie had a great sense of humor and was very well done. It's nice to see a horror movie that can provide some good laughs. I had much the same feeling when I saw Sean of the Dead and From Dusk to Dawn. The movie is well paced, and at the screening I attended, the audience had a great time. The editing was crisp, and the cinematography and color grading was quite engaging. Brian Cunningham and Matt Niehoff wore many hats in this production, and I think they did a great job covering a lot of bases. Many times things suffer when resources are stretched too thin, but it was obvious that a lot of time, effort, and attention to detail was expended to make sure that this was not the case in this instance. The music was also well done, and really added to the dynamic of the film. While my guess is there wasn't a very large budget for the film, I think it holds it's own with many other movies in this genre that cost a lot more to produce. I think these guys are going to be people to keep your eyes on. They definitely show a passion and talent for movie making.

OVERTIME the movies action travels at the speed of light. This fast paced, thrill ride, IS the must see movie of the Summer. Al Snow, and John Wells, are the new "Butch and Sundance" of Action Films. Everything, from the great direction of Matt Niehoff, to the slick, and tight cinematography of Brian Cunningham, makes this film a smash hit. The icing on the cake in this movie, is accentuated by the driving soundtrack from Jason Paige, and the Villbillies. They say dynamite comes in small packages. Well THIS little Independent film, will hit you like freight train on steroids. So strap in, hold on, and get ready for the ride of your life. IT'S OVERTIME !