For SIFF this year I bought two Cinematic Six-Packs, a handful of matinees, and a Gala ticket. At the counter, the clerk pointed out to me that one film in a six-pack was a matinee and thus could be bought separately for less, and so I flailed a bit to find something to take its place. In a panic I chose Wristcutters: A Love Story, mostly because it starred Patrick Fugit and I think he’s pretty darn adorable. Honestly, I thought the movie would probably suck. (On a related note, it sounds like my biggest miss, ie the movie I almost went to but didn’t, and yet keep hearing about, was another Fugit film: Bickford Schmeckler’s Cool Ideas.)
And oh my goodness. Excellent choice. It doesn’t have distribution yet, so I hope -someone- buys it because -I- want to buy it on DVD.
I haven’t read the short story it’s based on (yet), or the graphic novel that drew influence from both story & film, but I’m looking forward to it. The basic concept is that Fugit’s character kills himself and winds up in a world populated by suicide victims. And then he sets out on a road trip, complete with touches of magical realism, some from the story and some added by the filmmaker consistent with the universe.
Plus, the flick included tunes by Gogol Bordello & a perfect turn by Tom Waits. Much with the squee. I really have a hard time talking about it without wavy hands. The write-up in Siffblog pegs it as the poster’s current favorite of the year. It’s mine too, in spite of the fact that it also starred Shannyn Sossamon. So there you go.
wicked jaws 