One of my favorite things is being able to review material of up and coming filmmakers. I’ve been given that privilege before and was given that privilege yet again when director Mitch Cohen presented me with Super Zero: Badass Journey into Zombie Awesomeness. This roughly 16 minute short centers around a guy who is a down on his luck “loser” name Josh. He is both awkward and self-doubting. How hasn’t at one time or another felt useless and irrelevant? I know I have and I’m sure most of us have as well. Josh (played by Umberto Celisano) is relatable, he is the everyday man with everyday problems. There’s the girl (Giselle Gilbert) of his dreams that he finds unattainable and unapproachable not because of anything she does but because he doesn’t feel worthy. Been there. Warning spoilers ahead…
Just when Josh thought things couldn’t get worse for him, he finds out rather uncomfortably that he has terminal brain cancer and now the zombie apocalypse has arrived. What’s a “loser” to do? Become the biggest badass on the planet. Sometimes when you have nothing to lose, that’s when the world and life in general becomes an easier journey to undertake.
The story is well paced and well told. The visual and sound effects are quite good given the budget. This is a credit to Cohen and his team. I hope to see more adventures of Josh and his zombie awesomeness. I also hope to see more of Mitch Cohen’s work. Who knows, someday I may say I remember his early work and had the honor to review it. If you have a dream of being a filmmaker, let nothing or no one stand in your way. Art is art. It should be encouraged and shared.
Super Zero: Badass Journey into Zombie Awesomeness: Highly Recommended.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
