ARE YOU READY TO ROCK?

[August 17th, 2005] In order to avoid any confusion or controversy, let's get something out of the way: I have known and been friends with Ian and Tyson Smith for more than 10 years. I first met them when they were self-publishing their comic book Moe, Investigator of the Odd. Since that time, Moe went on to become the cult hit Oddjob, which was published by Slave Labor Graphics, the company that also published the Smith brothers' graphic novel, Emily and the Inter-Galactic Lemonade Stand. When the Smiths decided to make their first film, The Sexy Chef, I assisted them as a sort of spiritual guru, offering wisdom that helped them make their comedy. On their new film I'm even credited as an "extras wrangler." At the end of the day, however, I didn't do much. But it's important everyone know this, because I don't want to get any angry emails, letters or phone calls accusing me of any sort of malfeasance.

Those who have followed the careers of the Smiths (both of whom have contributed to WW) will no doubt be happy to hear that their new film, Monday Night Gig, is ready for public consumption. MNG spans eight years in the life of The French, an aspiring rock band populated by misfits. Neil Kopplin co-stars as Christian, a junior-high teacher and frontman for the struggling band. Christian dreams of rock-and-roll grandeur-a fantasy he manages to sell to his bandmates Tom 1 (Aaron Babb), Tom 2 (Seneca Relich) and Grace (Ina Strauss). The problem is that The French seems destined never to break out of Christian's garage, or land anything better than a Monday-night gig.

Like The Sexy Chef and the comic books created by the Smith brothers, MNG is defined by its offbeat sense of humor. Ian, who handles the writing chores of the team, has spent time in struggling bands, and his script offers an insight that only comes from playing crappy shows in run-down clubs for three drunks who wandered in off the street. Meanwhile, Tyson's direction has definitely matured since their first film.

The film is not without its shortcomings-a few scenes drag a bit-but overall it works, thanks in no small part to the talent and chemistry of the cast. Kopplin gives a solid performance as that guy many of us have known who refuses to let go of his dreams, even in the face of the harshest reality. Strauss is hilarious as the cold, bitchy drummer.

Filmed on a ridiculously small budget, Monday Night Gig is an example of the promise and potential of digital filmmaking. The Smith brothers still have some growing and learning to do as filmmakers, but if this is any indication, then they're headed in the right direction.