With his second feature-length film "Talent," student filmmaker Nathaniel Nose proves he's got it. The film, which introduces viewers to a new genre, "docucomedy," is genuinely funny.
The film tells the story of two actors and their quest for success. Brent Boner (Finn Wrisley) and Jimmy Ohngren (James Ohngren) are best friends and horrible actors. They're so bad, they are banned from even auditioning for any production.
The two get taken on by Aaron Dean (Aaron Dean), a failed figure skater turned agent, who tries to lift their spirits by suggesting they take things into their own hands. Brent and Jimmy take what their unqualified agent says and decide to stage their own, real-life audition. The famous director, Hugo Zeff (Mike Kelly) is in town casting for his next production, and they're going to rob the travel agency while he's in it and kidnap him to showcase their acting skills.
The film's plot is simple, but it's supplemented by numerous subplots. The simplicity also allows for the humor to take center stage. "Talent" is really driven by its unique form of comedy. The characters are original, and offer viewers a form of comedy unlike that seen in other movies.
While its main focus is making audiences laugh, "Talent" also manages to be somewhat heartwarming. The sentimental ending brings the film full circle. Every moment in "Talent" pays attention to detail and relevance. Viewers savvy in pop culture can appreciate small scenes in which song lyrics are spoken and numerous films are subtly referenced.
The direction in the film was every bit as creative as the story. Audiences aren't bored by straight-ahead, identical shots throughout the film. Instead, viewers are treated to various camera angles and creative use of props.
The two-hour film could have used some tighter editing. The first hour flies by while viewers laugh uncontrollably. The second hour kind of drags in parts. While the inspirational, emotional parts of the film give it depth, they were played out a little too much in the last half of the film.
The lead actors in the film were phenomenal — not just good student actors, but impressive actors period. They managed to play characters that were based on their actual lives. Wrisley and Ohngren pulled off their roles without seeming like they were merely being themselves, but they also managed to seem like real people. There is a perfect balance you have to strike when playing an exaggerated version of yourself, and both actors pulled it off.
The supporting cast was, for the most part, equally talented. The few minor roles that weren't quite mastered don't hamper the overall quality of the film.
East Lansing residents and MSU students will get an additional treat while watching "Talent." The film does a good job really showcasing the area. There are a lot of little things that will be exciting for viewers who recognize them.
Overall "Talent" is an innovative comedy that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It sticks to a simple message that is true for everyone — follow your dreams.
