brsisson Reviews

Charlie's Party (2005)

The formidable Charlie coerces six friends and a movie star to join her in a sex party to celebrate her 30th.

[8/10 · 16 June 2005]

Really a good movie. Starts a bit slow to introduce a large and talented task then picks up with witty interplay between the sexes and enough unvarnished sexual challenge to make anyone squirm a bit. This first feature by a very talented director will surprise those who happen upon it, and it surely could be the basis for a great first date!

I understand that this was done on a reasonably low budget but it doesn't show in the production values or the mostly original music.

The performances are great throughout, with standout characters Tom (Mark Dold) who we love to hate, Nick (Eron Octasek) a blundering comedic charmer, Sarah (Sabrina Lloyd) the sympathetic lead searching for the strength to emerge as a woman in charge of herself, and of course the indomitable Charlie (Alissia Miller) , who descends into a perfect, just shy of camp, frenzy as she does whatever it takes to drive this party forward.

Watch it and enjoy!

Chrystal (2004)

This is an interesting southern Gothic film with great character development and fine performances by all.

[10/10 · 12 April 2005]

I liked this film for many reasons and on many differing levels.

Actually I am always impressed when an actor in a film is also the director. In this case, Ray McKinnon performs both jobs admirably. When he is on screen, he drives the film and when he is not, one is looking forward to his electric and wildly out of control return! Ray's real life buddy Walter Coggins shines as well. He is as spineless and oily as they come and he becomes the character quite well.

Finally, the young Colin Fickes also stands out with a great comedic performance. (I hope to see more of him soon!) And Billy Bob? He is his normal professional self - it is just that these others shine so bright that Billy Bob doesn't stand out as one might expect in this world of (for now) lesser names. No shame to him - this is a film not a solo performance! This is an off beat, southern Gothic tale that no one will be sad to have gone to see. It takes its place in the world of independent fare and holds it well. All involved should be proud and I look forward to the future work of this great team.