Little Willy

Now look, I cannot deny great acting, where there is great acting. The lead actor's performance was breathtaking. The story though- it was a little stale.

It has all the ingredients to be more than a good short horror. It is just a nice support of reflection about atmosphere and pressures of fan conventions, short career of child actor, refuge in past for be secure, connection with old friends and psychological breakdown. In same measure , horror references - the last scene can be the most powerful, is a real good point. And, not the last, seductive presence of Adrienne Barbeau and Zach Galligan , the short moment of Grimlines fans being just inspired.

Andrew Bowser's long history of writing, directing, acting, hosting podcasts, and just altogether loving horror serves him well: 'Little Willy' is a delightful short film.

There are several key components honed in on here, including fan conventions and the awkwardness of holding down a table; the stagnation of once prominent acting careers, especially for child stars; and the high visibility of horror icons independent of the people associated with them. Add one nervous breakdown, comedy to taste, and enjoy.

Bowser's spidering connections in culture allow him to pull some surprising names for the casts in his pictures, and 'Little Willy' is no exception. It's always a joy to see Adrienne Barbeau, and Zach Galligan's unexpected appearance is a pleasure. Playing fictionalized versions of themselves, they ground the short with amiability and the wisdom of experience, a sharp contrast to Adam Castle's (Bowser) less self-assured visage. It's readily apparent just how much fun everyone had making this, especially in the final scene - and easy for the audience to feel that sense of camaraderie, too.

Anyone who enjoys horror comedy, cult classics, or broad fandom culture should take a few minutes to watch 'Little Willy.' It's a smart send-up of several little peculiarities of our culture, and well worth a quick view.