Van Flesher's `Burning Annie' is a smart comedy about a neurotic college student who becomes convinced that his obsession with Woody Allen's `Annie Hall' is ruining his love life. Unlike so many twentysomething comedies, `Burning Annie' relies on a strong story and a talented cast of characters to tell its tale.
Gary Lundy is fantastic in the lead role of Max, a college station disc jockey who keeps changing his radio program's schedule out of fear that someone might be listening. Kim Murphy plays Beth, Max's ex-girlfriend and sounding board, and Sara Downing plays Julie, Max's new love interest. These strong performances are rounded out by Brian Klugman who plays Max's goofy sidekick, Charles, in a role reminiscent of the Tony Roberts character from Allen's `Annie Hall', if only in spirit.
The script, by Zack Ordynans and Randy Mack, is filled with dark wit and clever dialogue, and provides a surprisingly honest look at everyday college life. It's self-referential without being too cute, and manages to tip its hat to Allen's `Annie Hall' while remaining fresh and original, throughout.
`Burning Annie' is well worth a look -- one of the surprise hits from thi s year's festival circuit.
