The Immaculate Conception of Little Dizzle

There is a great deal to admire in this film, and a little to forgive. First, you have to remember that this is not your grandfather's film, or your Aunt Stacy's. It's not set up in that classical Hollywood vein where we in the audience all agree beforehand that, despite the clear gap between our real lives and what we will see on the screen, we are not actually watching a fictional construction. No, this film acknowledges from the start that it is all about a message that it needs to deliver. It's a more modern piece, and although there are moments that make me think of Network, the overall mood is perhaps more the farcical landscape of Dr. Strangelove.

As for the forgiveness that we must show, it's mostly towards the casting. It may be true that most of the actors are not polished gems - the lead, Marshall Allman is perfectly adequate but that is not the nicest thing one could say - but there's a good deal of craft in here, particularly from Vince Vieluf, and some fair turns,including those of Tania Raymonde and Richard Lefebvre.

I'm amazed to find that David Russo has not yet had a break-out film, either as a writer or director. This film is full of bright ideas, clever characterization and exceptional images. It's a very good example of story-telling, and it gets a ton out of what must have been limited production resources. I liked it a great deal, and I have no doubt whatsoever that there are a large number of people out there who would find more here to endorse than in a bucketful of more commercial fare. Yes, it's a festivally, arthousey kind of film, but that's because it has something to say and a new-ish way of saying it. Give it the time and the attention, and it will reward you at above minimum-wage rates.