Of the many films I have seen in my lifetime, some of the ones I appreciate the most are ones that are made by people I know. My respect is instantly earned. I have come to know several people that have taken on the daunting task of making a film.
One person in particular is Thomas E. Rome.
He uses his expertise to join forces with Robert Cinema. An independent film company that specializes in low budget films. The company was created in 1988 by brothers Robert and Mike Miceli in Dumont, New Jersey. They have made over 100 short films and 7 feature length pictures. Now they may specialize in low budget films but they have mastered comedy. I have seen a few of their films. Both short and feature length and each one has been just as funny if not funnier than it's predecessor. Honored is the latest entry into the hallowed filmography of Robert Cinema.
I have to say that for a short film, these guys pulled out all the stops. They rolled the dice and gambled on some pretty revealing gags and it pays off big time. This of course would never be possible without the performance of Phil Matthews as Vince. This dude's got balls of steel and continues to push his comedic talents (of which he has a ton of) to the limit. Phil plays Vince masterfully as he toes the line of complete jerk and lovable loser. You feel contempt for his attitude and opinions while feeling sorry for him cause he just can't catch a break. All in the SAME SCENE! That's pretty impressive stuff.
The script is very well written. The balance of gags and jokes via dialogue are spread out evenly throughout. There's also some very clever camera work that reveals jokes that you don't see coming. There was a clear exhibit of technical, creative and performance integrity all the way to the end credits. There's just one problem with this film.
You can't see it yet.
It hasn't been released yet. This is the first film by the brothers that was shot in total HD. Needless to say that's a major undertaking so every little detail must be attended to in order to secure it's finest quality for a full blown release.
How did I get to see it you ask? Let's just say it's not what you know, it's who you know.
Suffice it to say that when Honored does get it's full fledged release I will be making sure that all of you see this film because it's worth your time. If not for anything else, support these guys. They are a talented bunch of lunatics who make damn funny films. They deserve your time and laughs.
They got mine.