It’s not too often you see a comedy that balances delicate subject matter with thoughtful, humorous storytelling and fallible, but relatable characters. Last month I was invited to my first table read for an indie film which just so happened to strike that perfect mix of elements. For being a total n00b to the experience, I think blended in like a pro (with the help of mimosa courage). The script at the center of it all is My Brother Steven, based on the writer Phillip Hoover’s true personal experiences. It centers upon the relationship of two brothers. Myles has been shouldering responsibility for his brother Steven for most of his young life. Steven has been plagued by mental illness his whole life and is somewhat of a burden to Myles. When Steven is suddenly put in the care of his brother after being released by mental health professionals, Myles is faced with a dilemma he’s not quite prepared to deal with. The events that ensue unveil the love between not only these siblings and their family, but a blooming romantic relationship between Myles and his girlfriend Tina. It’s certainly a breath of fresh to see mental health issues being brought to an audience in such a genuine, sensitive manner. I was beyond impressed with the plot and the actors’ performances couldn’t not have been more flawless.
Speaking of actors, let’s get to the casting. Playing Myles, we had Silicon Valley star Josh Brener, who some might know better as “Big Head.” Brener’s performance was perfectly awkward and nuanced which we’ve come to expect from this talented actor. Martha MacIsaac, known for her role as Becca in the teen comedy Super Bad, delivered a charming performance as Myles’ girlfriend Tina, who, if we face facts, is really the rock of that relationship. Adam Herschman (Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay, Accepted) who played Steven, had the audience rooting for his character from the get-go with a sometimes shirtless performance that evoked both sympathy and laughter. The remainder of the cast included Chrissy Metz (American Horror Story) as Karen, a friend; Heida Reed (Poldark) as Lola, Steven’s french love interest; Sarah Lilly (Georgia Rule) as Ethel, mom to Myles and Steven; Matt Morosky filling miscellaneous male roles and Sarah Mendelsohn, the narrator and voice of iTunes radio.
My Brother Steven will be hitting up the festival circuit and hopes to start filming soon, depending on how quickly financing is completed. The shoot will take approximately six months. Release of the film would be limited and you can expect to see it in your trusty indie theater space and, hopefully, on VOD or online. You may recognize the producer of the film, Lauren Coggiola, because she happens to moonlight as the monthly-ish Cat Call comedy show producer at Bar Lubitsch. The co-directors of the film are Sam Ritzenberg and Benjamin Lindemuth-McRobie. I can’t wait to see the finished product. There’s no doubt I’ll be giving you the 411 once the film has been released. Wheee!
Mentions: Would you like to see more comedy films dealing with important issues? Tell us in the comments.