Don't Tell Larry

I don't believe in recounting plot points, whether they're surprising spoilers or not, in a review, as I believe all movies should be experienced with a fresh set of eyes. However, I highly recommend this movie if you like dark comedies that take risks, and especially if you like comedies centered around workplace frustrations.

Don't Tell Larry opens by introducing us to a few quirky but recognizable office character types. They seem to live in a universe adjacent to characters in films like "Office Space" and the TV show "The Office." Pretty quickly, though, the characters in Don't Tell Larry quickly plunge headlong into a series of situations, getting into deeper trouble because of their own actions and bad decisions, or because some unexpected twist forces them to think quick. Of course, their troubles start with that inciting incident described in the title -- the main character's decision to not tell Larry something that if she had just told him, may have saved herself from a world of trouble. But then, of course, there would be no film.

Similar to how Mike Judge's feature film "Office Space" first reached audiences as short animated films featuring the character of Milton with his recurring line, "OK, but I'm going to set the building on fire," Don't Tell Larry also began as a web series. Co-writer / directors Greg Porper and John Schimke expand upon their original shorts in this much more ambitious film. The stakes have risen exponentially for everyone involved. I admire their ambition. Without giving away anything specific, some other reviewers have commented on how the plot takes unexpected turns that did not work for them. I'd like to offer a counter argument, which is also one of the reasons I enjoyed this movie so much. This movie does not play it safe! Porper and Schimke have taken risks deciding on the situations their characters need to contend with, ratcheting up the stakes into unforeseen and dangerous territory. For me, the test about whether or not an unexpected turn of events in a story "works" is if is both fresh and exciting, while also grounded in the reality of the story's universe and the characters' personalities; is the twist a logical extension of what the characters would do? Considering how many writers play it safe and don't take creative chances, I was pleased not only by where the creative team took this story, but by the fact that it seemed both fresh, surprising, and logical. In other words, by my personal test, the story worked. Not only does the plot serve the story, but the tension created by the characters faced with how to respond to the situations they find themselves in and the unexpected turn of events are the very ingredients needed for comedy. Don't Tell Larry delivers, albeit in very dark comedic fashion.

This film is so much fun, and awesomely creepy, I watched it twice. Don't Tell Larry, written and directed by Greg Porper and John Schimke, is a hilarious ride that's also surprisingly tense. Each scene pops because it's built on constant "but" and "therefore" moments, keeping the story moving and, at times, pushing me to the edge of my seat.

If you're interested in screenwriting, study this film. It's not just the witty dialogue or the well-drawn characters, it's the constant setups, payoffs, and unexpected twists that make it work so well. Something is always happening that shifts the stakes, and that's brilliant.

The cast is spot-on. Ed Begley Jr. Is a delightfully clueless CEO whose delivery makes him a lovable idiot. Kiel Kennedy as the creepy Larry is an unhinged maniac, his smile alone is unsettling, adding a psychological thriller edge to the comedy. Patty Guggenheim as Susan and Kenneth Mosley as Patrick shine as coworkers who keep landing in the most absurd, hilarious situations.

With a sharp script and a cast that fully commits, Don't Tell Larry is a must-see. It's polished, fast-paced, and endlessly entertaining.

Funny, dark...I laughed, I cringed. The story builds and builds - you just can't wait to see what's going to happen next! Screwball scenarios and antics. Loved the characters especially Larry who is wildly sweet/scary.

This is an "indie" film that has the production value of a mainstream, major studio-backed film. Kudos to the writers, director and producers. The score adds to the enjoyment and suspense, driving the action forward. One of our watch party actually had an ear worm of the itty-bitty raisin song the next day -- how weird is that?.

This film is quite enjoyable. I'm recommending it to all my friends and random people that want to have a good time.

Great movie! This dark comedy was full of action and had me laughing one minute and then on the edge of my seat the next minute. Great pacing with the twist and turns from one scene to the next.. Really enjoyed how well this filmed was executed from the incredibly intricate storyline, to the well written scenes and the wonderful casting of each character.. Honestly, I can't say enough great things about the ensemble cast that made this movie amazing! . Everyone played a part, no matter how big or small each role added to the hilarious voyage this movie took you on. I highly recommend this. It's got some famous people in it and some up and comers that we will probably see a lot more soon!

This is a comedic thriller based off of creative and tense anxiety. It throws you into a need-to-know-more mentality with genius, dark twists and turns. But make sure to pause in between to collect yourself from uproars of laughter. And then question your sense of morality and whether you would follow the same path. I could feel the cringe deep in my bones from second-hand embarrassment but I could not stop watching. Please, do not skip out on this fantastic watch with you feeling immersed in a story of friendship, deceit, and perfect comedic timing. (Make sure to stay and enjoy the credits too ;) )