Solondz first feature-length pic is one to seek out. A funny and brutal thrashing of the business of art. Solondz plays an aspiring playwright who struggles with the inner-workings of the social structure he finds himself apart of. This is ultimately the underlying theme. How each individual sees him/her self in the eyes of others, how they see themselves or how they want to be perceived. Ira, Solondz character seeks out "Junk" the crazed performance artist in hopes to not only score with her, but to elevate his status.
Solondz will go on to make more films to more acclaim, and that are even darker and have a real extreme contempt for humanity. Although Fear, Anxiety and Depression, has that dark tone, Solondz juxtaposes some lighter moments to help balance out the overall mood.
If you can get past Ira's nasally whine and Woody Allenesque antics, and enjoy satire, especially at the expense of the pretentious art world, then this should be on your must see list.
Solondz will go on to make more films to more acclaim, and that are even darker and have a real extreme contempt for humanity. Although Fear, Anxiety and Depression, has that dark tone, Solondz juxtaposes some lighter moments to help balance out the overall mood.
If you can get past Ira's nasally whine and Woody Allenesque antics, and enjoy satire, especially at the expense of the pretentious art world, then this should be on your must see list.