Best Worst Movie

Best Worst Movie is a captivating 2009 documentary film that explores the enigmatic world of so-called "bad movies" and their unexpected impact on pop culture. Directed by Michael Stephenson, who was also a child star in the cult classic "Troll 2," the film features detailed interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the original casting members, notably George Hardy and Pita Ray.

The film is structured around George Hardy, who was a practicing dentist in Alabama when he was cast as the earnest father, Michael Waits, in "Troll 2." Despite "Troll 2" being universally panned initially for its abysmal production values, poorly constructed narrative, and amateur acting, it has since grown into a beloved cult phenomenon due to its endearingly atrocious qualities. Hardy is portrayed as a quirky, charismatic figure who delights in the unexpected late-blooming fame that the movie has brought him, even as he acknowledges the film's glaring flaws.

Pita Ray, who played the comically over-the-top villain in "Troll 2," also makes an appearance in the documentary. He shares his own experiences and thoughts about the film's laughable artifact status, offering a refreshingly candid perspective on the world of low-budget filmmaking. Actress Micki Knox, another "Troll 2" alumni, also makes an appearance, reflecting on her time during the production of the flick.

Stephenson, in directing Best Worst Movie, takes us on a mesmerizing journey into the cult underworld of cinema, a place where the line between good and bad is blurred and often inverted. The film presents an affectionate tribute to "Troll 2" while also delving into the broader culture of bad-movie fandom. Audiences are treated to clips from the movie, insider anecdotes, and interviews with rabid fans who delight in these movies' oddball charm.

The film also tackles the fascinating phenomenon of how and why some movies, despite their apparent lack of quality, garner a following and traction over time. It reveals the fan conventions, midnight screenings, and enthusiastic panel discussions that have evolved around these so-called "worst" movies. It does so with humor and heart, presenting an entertaining look at a group of people who are united in their genuine enthusiasm for what in many cases might be considered the bottom rung of the film industry.

Best Worst Movie is not just a film about a movie; it's also a poignant exploration of fame, success, and the relative nature of good and bad. It's about the classic American pursuit of the dream, however improbable or eccentric that dream may be. It turns the spotlight onto an endearing cast of characters, who, despite being involved in a dubious cinematic endeavor, find joy and fulfillment in its unlikely success.

The documentary uniquely presents a human story that goes beneath the veneer of the film industry and pop culture. Beyond just presenting "Troll 2" as a cult phenomenon, it also showcases how the cast and crew grappled with its initial failure and eventual cult success. It manages to make the audience empathize with the films participants and appreciate their offbeat but genuine passion.

Stephenson's approach to exploring this narrative is one set in authenticity and humor. The film is embedded with hilarious clips from "Troll 2," along with the characters' self-deprecating takes on the film. Yet, at the same time, it offers a profound meditation on subjective taste and the unexpected places where art can emerge.

One of the major highlights of Best Worst Movie is its inspirational tone. It’s a fun, quirky, and endlessly entertaining documentary that illustrates that sometimes, failure can lead to unexpected triumph.

To wrap it up, Best Worst Movie is a brilliantly rendered exploration of the cult phenomenon surrounding the movie "Troll 2." It looks beyond the film as a mere cinematic disaster and delves into the heart and soul of the people who embraced it. This documentary is a heartwarming tribute to all films that are so bad they're good and the audiences who love them, making it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts.