When I first saw this movie , I didn’t know what to expect. I knew it would be unique when I saw the hilarious, scathing news channel parody. From then on, it made me laugh with unexpected surprises and subversive riffs on the Hollywood theme.

The varied characters and their plights were entertaining, fresh, and painfully recognizable. Ray Wise shone as the consummate capital-A actor. Sonya Smith, the lovely director, was notably sympathetic as she finally found the courage to take charge. Her relationship with the talented Joseph Culp elicited funny and wincing memories of one’s own life choices, as the couple decides what to hold onto and what to let go.

Beata Pozniak was hilarious and disturbingly real during her catfight to keep what she earned. Roberto Bacalski’s performance as a smarmy producer was cringingly on target. His harshness began an exciting chain reaction, forcing foes to bond and skeptics to believe. Ruthless, incisive, and sympathetic, the dialogue was excellent.

The desert scenery was beautifully rendered and appropriate to the story – what Hollywood would be if it dried up. The sets and costumes were outstanding, especially on a tight budget.

The ending, which I won’t spoil, was a hugely fun payoff as excess took root. Though hilarious, it also made you think about what you truly want and the price you’d be willing to pay for it.

I highly recommend this funny, imaginative, and extremely original film.