MICerz (2022) Film Review
MICerz is a comedy film that works under its own traditional terms.
It’s a recollection of conversations we, the audience of these shows and regular humans (Ha!), aren’t familiar and can’t even keep in pace with. It consists of a plethora of jokes whose dirty nature goes above our capacity. Beyond this very original style, there’s a story about an underdog who’s supposed to make it in a world that’s not cohesive with the common dramatic journey. Nothing in MICerz is conventional.
The film’s dramatic backbone is quite simple. This is the story of a guy who gets a DUI and he drives for work. A terrible decision that leaves him homeless after his girlfriend throws him out. He starts living in his van but it breaks down in the most convenient of places.
Arnold is a comedian wannabe who has always been afraid of getting up on stage, even after bribing people to accept a couple of minutes of his act. And his van breaks down outside of an underground comedy club. This is how fairy tales begin. At least those starring unknown comedians who aren’t afraid to offend their audiences if it helps their act.
Dave is in charge of The Bomb Shelter, the club that could use some of Arnold’s handyman work. He accepts Arnold living outside in his van if he can help fix up the place. This is Arnold’s first contact with the real world of stand-up comics and the harsh conditions of their lifestyle.
However, MICerz isn’t a regular comedy that’s structured to bring peace once lessons are taught, love is found in the oddest of places, and justice is served. Around Arnold’s search for redemption is a film that’s made out of jokes told by some of Arnold’s peers. Real-life comedians that have found a safe spot for shouting out their voices and sharing their body of work.
Art works in mysterious ways sometimes. Comedy doesn’t differ from that. In MICerz a fair share of personalities make up for the film’s irreverent spirit. From Arnold’s awkward performances to Dave’s frantic attitude in the face of… everything. In other words, MICerz allows everyone to get their share of laughs because there’s material for everyone.
Some things could be improved. Edits are necessary because at some point the concept overflows the story and it just feels repetitive. There are bits I didn’t connect with. And the bantering feels unnatural. It’s clear MICerz isn’t going for authenticity but this doesn’t mean the comedy context can’t be honest, or at least feel like it.
MICerz is experimental, amateurish, but sincerely funny. It isn’t an opportunity to disregard based on technicalities. This is an indie comedy that works if you don’t ask too many questions and enjoy whatever’s to be enjoyed. Dave’s shenanigans are hilarious, and Arnold’s partners sometimes hit the sweet spot in jokes that feel clever. If you’re looking for a few laughs and are familiar with the concept of stand-up comedy, this could work for you.
