Ape

Ape is a 2012 black comedy drama film directed by Joel Potrykus, starring Joshua Burge in the leading role as Trevor, a failed comedian who is wrestling with his personal crises as well as professional hardships. It gives an intriguing depiction of an almost-falling comedian who takes desperate actions that come off as both pitiful and even somewhat comic. The movie co-stars Nicholas Fairbanks and Gary Perrine who bring compelling performances to the film.

Joshua Burge plays Trevor Newandyke, an embittered and detached artist who's much more complex than he initially appears. Struggling to gain recognition in the comedy world, he finds himself continually disappointed by the feedback he receives after his performances. Despite the bitterness, there's an undeniable twinge of desperation and latent determination in his character to pull himself up from the rut.

The storyline of Ape beautifully layers elements of comedy, drama, and a hint of fantasy creating a dimension of depth that both intrigues and entices viewers. A major part of the movie is about Trevor’s miserable state of life, often tainted with amusing cynicism that ironically points out the absurdity in the everyday life. This character-driven movie goes against the grain, boldly exploring a dark, almost nihilistic undertone, yet retains a certain relatability through its themes of struggle, desperation, and the quest for self-validation.

Nicholas Fairbanks and Gary Perrine add to the dynamism of the story cast as supporting characters. They reflect various faces of life and society that Trevor encounters and helps the audience see the diversity of experiences that contribute to the complexity of his persona. The movie delves into the minds of its characters, peeling back layers of social normativity to reveal stark, often uncomfortable realities.

Ape uses a mix of low-key comedy and intense drama indicative of Potrykus’ unique storytelling style. The movie carefully blends these contrasting tones, straddling the line between tragedy and comedy in a manner that works incredibly well with its thematic content. This realistic and often pathetic portrayal of Trevor's life veers away from the predictability of mainstream narratives, instead focusing on the raw uncertainty of a life lived on the brink of societal acceptance.

Set in gritty surroundings, the movie's atmospheric undertone adds a sense of depth and context, painting a vivid picture of the world Trevor embodies. It explores the life he leads and the people he encounters while he grapples with the nuances of his unconventional existence. The powerful performances coupled with Potrykus’s engaging storytelling, and unexpected turns make Ape a thought-provoking cinematic experience.

The film’s superbly crafted dialogue delivers heaps of dark humour, exploring the underbelly of failure and societal rejection. It uses its characters and their seemingly mundane interactions to paint a broader picture of despair and the grotesque reality of social outcasts.

In a nutshell, Ape delves into the psyche of a struggling comedian, dissecting his personal and professional life while delivering a captivating performance that combines elements of comedy and drama to create a raw, unfiltered portrayal of reality. This movie is a strong representation of independent cinema, pushing boundaries and inviting viewers into deeper contemplation about life, dreams, and the human spirit.

The brilliance of Ape lies in its mixture of humor and darkness, and its ability to present a credible character suffering from a bout of existential crisis. It forgoes the usual Hollywood gloss for a more grounded and genuine look at the highs and lows of pursuing one's dreams. It is an uncompromising exploration of desperation, raw life, and the human will to break through the shackles of societal acceptance and rise above the odds.

Through its strong performances, captivating script, and engaging narrative, Ape garners appreciation for the potential of the indie film industry, and tackling heavyweight themes in an approachable, relatable, and often humorous manner.