I had the opportunity to see this film at a screening and must say it was quite fun, entertaining and dark all at the same time. Shot as a mockumentary much like Tanner '88 and Tanner on Tanner, the film mixes politics with the acting world.
Beginning in the months before the 2004 Presidential election, actor Dan Butler (FRAISER) is approached by filmmaker Phil Leirness (PARTY CRASHERS) to make a film on supporting actors, the unsung heroes of Hollywood. Using this pretense, the viewer is given a first person point of view to Butler's life and is present when Butler decides to put together a one man about Karl Rove, the Republican strategist responsible for the campaign of George W. Bush and later dubbed by Bush himself as "The Architect." Starting off with the goal of exposing all the Machiavellian plans and schemes of a man seen as a conservative hero and the liberals' devil, the more Butler gets into the role, the more Butler starts to change, much to the alarm of his family and friends and leading to the question, "Who is playing whom?" The acting by Butler is top notch as a Captain Ahab after his elusive whale and is supported in the effort by his own family and friends playing themselves, giving the film a feel of realism and vitality. The first person camera work adds another character by breaking through the fourth wall and allowing the viewer to be an active participant. In addition the subject matter is presented in such a way that it will appeal to all viewers, regardless of political slant. Liberals will see it as a horror story while conservatives will see it is a comedy. Overall, a good showing of Butler's skills and talent and definitely a fun film to watch.
Beginning in the months before the 2004 Presidential election, actor Dan Butler (FRAISER) is approached by filmmaker Phil Leirness (PARTY CRASHERS) to make a film on supporting actors, the unsung heroes of Hollywood. Using this pretense, the viewer is given a first person point of view to Butler's life and is present when Butler decides to put together a one man about Karl Rove, the Republican strategist responsible for the campaign of George W. Bush and later dubbed by Bush himself as "The Architect." Starting off with the goal of exposing all the Machiavellian plans and schemes of a man seen as a conservative hero and the liberals' devil, the more Butler gets into the role, the more Butler starts to change, much to the alarm of his family and friends and leading to the question, "Who is playing whom?" The acting by Butler is top notch as a Captain Ahab after his elusive whale and is supported in the effort by his own family and friends playing themselves, giving the film a feel of realism and vitality. The first person camera work adds another character by breaking through the fourth wall and allowing the viewer to be an active participant. In addition the subject matter is presented in such a way that it will appeal to all viewers, regardless of political slant. Liberals will see it as a horror story while conservatives will see it is a comedy. Overall, a good showing of Butler's skills and talent and definitely a fun film to watch.