Z-Listers (2014) Reviews

• Completely original, charming and hilarious

  patrick-conrad-30-4748182014-10-09

  First of, I don't understand why people aren't making stories like this. This is very original, but there's a Ricky Gervais feel to it like 'Life's Too Short' and 'Extras' which I am a fan of. And you can tell it's low-budget so it's not like it's anything difficult to do - sorry filmmakers - however this film in general is somewhat very special to audiences of all ages. The reason I like 'Z-Listers' is because it's somewhat a "mockumentary" sort of genre, starring fictional Z-list celebrity Christopher Baker, best known for his work in the Doctor Who franchise as a child star in a couple of unnamed episodes. Things get worse and worse as he owes money to the BBC for copyright infringement, due to selling the images at his conventions, and ends up borrowing money off a loan shark as he's in a dark place. It's a hole that gets deeper and deeper basically. The joke of the series is Baker's ego is big as all outdoors despite his being unknown to the public at large. What gets me is when Baker always wears shades and a baseball cap to hide from his so-called fans. Actor Sid White obviously has the courage and great humour to portray Z-list celebrities this way, and it works well, with his entire life falling apart around him while he continues to brag about his exploring new frontiers in his acting and agency "empire". The supporting cast around him do the film justice also, and they're very lovable people too. We have Ellie (the bimbo stripper), Dave (the lack of faith manager) and Finn (the lovable rogue). But the one who's truly spectacular is the loan shark known as Edward the B****** (played by wrestler Aaron Sharp) as his performance was superb and well written. Comedy is at it's best when it's not thrown in your face and Sharp does this well, with subtlety and well- timed expressions. A great character that I would watch over and over again. The film is very funny but more importantly it has heart and that's usually the occasion you would watch a film - to care about the characters as well as laugh at/with them. The best low- budget film I've seen in a long time.

• feature film.

  sam-cj-133-9669012014-10-15

  Aboslutey incredible low budget film. Starring a team of actors who know how to captivate their audience. Director Kris Smith brings a whole new outlook on the 'z-lister' name, creating a masterpiece. The hand held camera work makes the perspective personal, making you feel as though you're in the film. Darren potter plays a convincing role as johnny depp, pulling the ladies as one would with the appearance as jack sparrow. For a sequel to 'z-lister', it definitely beats all expectation and defines the reality of a struggling ex actor. Sex, violence and comedy rolled into one. If there's one Norwich based film you watch this year, make it this one!