Original subtitles

Clementine?

No.

Oh, uh, okay, sorry.

Um... May I help you?

Yeah, I'm Jacob Sanders.

I have a film playing here tonight.

Wait, who?

Jacob Sanders.

No, man, I don't think he's here yet.

Look, we open the doors for Key Largo around 6.30.

Actually, I think that was yesterday.

I'm Jacob Sanders, the director of the film playing here tonight.

It's a special event.

The premiere of my feature.

My producer emailed your manager about this like 20 times.

Which film?

Oedipus Lex.

Oh, okay, I remember.

But I don't think we've sold any tickets for that yet.

So I'm not sure it's still happening.

But you can probably go to our website and buy some tickets if you want.

It's my film.

I wrote and directed it.

We've been coordinating the screening with your theater for months.

What's happening here tonight?

Sure, it's cool, dude.

I think I can explain a little better to your manager.

Can I come in at least?

Hi, excuse me.

Did anyone tell you about Oedipus Lex?

Excuse you?

The name of the film tonight is Oedipus Lex.

Are you kidding?

No.

Okay.

Jacob, hello.

I'm so sorry I wasn't here to greet you.

They were announcing the lotto numbers and I guess I got my hopes up a little bit.

Anyway, how are you?

Good, good, thanks.

Yeah, sorry if I'm here way too early.

Just wanted to get here before the chaos ensues.

I got a lot of people coming tonight and they can be pretty demanding.

But how are you?

How are things going around here?

Well, sorry.

I am optimistic that everything is going to run smoothly this evening.

Fingers crossed.

Of course.

It's great to hear that.

So, did you tell a lot of your friends about this?

Yeah, yeah, of course.

I told all my friends about my film premiere.

Good.

You told them all and you reminded them.

Uh, yes.

Yeah, I emailed everyone I know including coworkers from eight years ago.

I texted a bunch of people and told them to forward it on to their friends.

I posted online to a bunch of social media channels

and tagged everyone that I've ever worked with.

Okay.

So do you think any of them are going to show up?

Hi.

Uh, excuse me.

I'm a member of the press.

My paper sent me over.

I'm supposed to interview Jacob Sanders?

Yeah, right on.

So are you looking for tickets to Spookathon 23 tomorrow?

Or do you want tickets for this indie thing tonight?

Oh, no.

Um, I'm supposed to interview someone inside.

Cool, cool.

Wait.

Who are you supposed to interview?

It's Jacob Sanders?

There's no one here by that name.

The director of the film playing tonight?

Oedipus Lex?

I mean, I think I saw him standing over there.

Oh, yeah, that guy.

Yeah, he's here.

You want to ask him for a ticket?

Hey, Vernon.

Greetings, my glorious director.

Did you get the emails I just sent you?

Hey, no, not yet.

But what did we say about using titles?

That we shouldn't.

I'll work on that.

Great.

You excited?

Oh, yeah, very much so.

I think if we sell at every seat tonight, it'll

be a major return on investment for the film.

And then we can use that money for the PR firms and the final interview.

Just focus on having a good time tonight, okay?

Yeah.

Hey, so, before I forget, I might have some good

news coming soon about those Futura Arts grants.

What?

Mr. Sanders, look at you.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

I'm very happy that I got to the final round,

but I'm trying not to be too excited about it.

No, no, no.

Don't be silly.

Okay?

You're gonna get it.

No, I'm just a finalist, okay?

Meanwhile, I'm trying to convince the people at this

theater that we actually have a screening tonight.

What?

That shouldn't happen.

I emailed Theo and the box office staff a copy of the final

contract, a basic scope of ask, and a confirmation email.

I also sent a confirmation text.

I'm sure they love you.

Do you want me to talk to the manager?

I'm sure he's around here somewhere.

It's not a big deal.

I just want people who walk in to know that we actually have a screening tonight.

You know, like basic entertainment principles.

And apparently, they're writing the title all wrong.

Hey, Oedipus Les?

What is that?

It's your title, dude.

Not mine.

Oedipus Lex.

The title is Oedipus Lex.

O-E-D-I-P-U-S.

In their defense, Oedipus Lex is a confusing title.

I don't care if people understand the reference.

I just want it spelled right.

Well, our options are that I speak to management about this, or, you know,

we can cancel outright, get 50% of the deposit back, and go out for empanadas.

I don't understand why you want to go see this

movie in a movie theater that nobody wants to see.

Our house doesn't have authentic movie theater popcorn.

When is popcorn so important to you?

Since always.

Since always?

I want popcorn, and I want to see other people.

What is this suddenly about other people?

At the theater.

At the theater?

Or other people in general?

I want to see other people.

Oh, honey, there you are.

Oh, my God.

What a schlep to get here.

Hey, Mom.

How you doing?

Fine.

You know me.

I can't complain.

But, oh, my God.

I never thought I would ever find this place.

Well, you're like an hour early, so...

Oh, wow.

Look at this.

Beautiful interior, this place.

So, I really thought this was on South Park.

South Park?

The directions I wrote down said get off Lake Shore

at Irvingport and then turn left on South Park.

South Port.

The theater's on South Port.

No bother.

You know, I'm just so happy to get out of the

house and see what the art kids are doing.

I don't think I've ever been in a bohemian theater like this before.

But, anyway, I brought grapes.

Mom, why'd you bring those?

To snack on.

And I brought enough for your friends, too.

I've been working with a nutritionalist, and I've lost some fats and popcorn.

Oh, come on.

Do people even really like popcorn?

Yes, Mom, they do.

People flock to the movie theater for popcorn.

That's why they sell so much of it.

Oh.

Well.

So, I was wondering, what's this new video of yours?

What's it about?

I saw the poster.

I can't make any sense of it.

Thanks, Mom.

Um, it's a character-driven allegorical drama focusing on Shakespeare and Greek

influences, but drawing from the early lore of DC Comics.

Well, I just hope it's not too stupid, like the last one.

Hey, uh, Mom, why don't you hang out over here?

There might be some press people around.

Oh, I'd be glad to talk to them for you, honey.

No, no, no.

If you can just wait over here.

I can show you to the bathroom.

Yeah, right back that way.

Uh, hello, uh, Jacob?

Yeah, hi, hi.

We spoke on the phone about an interview before your screening.

Yes, thanks for coming.

So when would be a good time to chat for a few minutes?

I got a few minutes now.

Jacob Sanders, uh, you're a filmmaker.

Jacob, darling, how are you?

Hi, hi.

So, where is the red carpet?

Well, there's not actually a red carpet.

Because I bought these Stuart Wisemans just for tonight.

So I was actually in the middle of something right now.

Sorry, just one minute.

Sure, um, no rush.

We can chat later.

Thanks.

Oh.

So I was actually trying to do a quick interview and I'm worried it won't work well.

Press, baby, of course.

I'd be happy to help.

I actually have my acting demo on my phone.

I can take it out really fast.

No, you don't have to do anything.

I think they're just going to interview me.

Probably for that 30 Under 30 film thing.

Yes.

Of course.

I completely forgot about that.

Congratulations.

Again.

That is such a big deal.

You are such a big deal now.

Are you going to move to LA?

Are you going to forget about us little Chicago folk?

No.

No, no, no.

That is not me.

But seriously.

If you need any help at all with press, just let me know.

I can do interviews.

I can do a photo shoot.

I can do a nip slip.

I'm kidding.

I won't.

Unless you want me to.

You're the director.

I'm the actor.

I can totally do it.

I don't need you to do that.

I'll do it.

I'll do it.

Okay.

Good to see you.

Bye, Leah.

That was crazy.

Jesus Christ.

Hey, did you see Custodian last night?

No.

Which one is that?

Oh, it's great.

It's this show on Stripes about a janitor.

He's fighting for custody of just one of his three kids.

Stripes?

Like the Bill Murray movie?

No.

Stripes is a streaming platform.

Well, there's a lot of army and veteran content on it now that I think of it.

I was mesmerized by this trigonometry duck I saw on CME TV.

Apparently, like tons of highway workers across the U.S.

are actually mathematics experts from other countries,

but their PhDs don't certify them to teach in the U.S.

That sounds pretty good.

Is there any action?

Tons.

Hey, Jacob.

Hey, Dad.

You made it.

Yeah, of course.

How are you, man?

Hanging in there.

A little anxious, I guess.

Hey, this is a big deal for you.

You know, be happy.

Don't be a putz.

Yeah, I guess you're right.

Thanks, Dad.

Man, this is a nice theater.

Definitely.

I've always loved coming here.

It's got such a rich history.

So, uh, how much do you need for, uh, tickets?

Dad, don't worry about it.

I got cops.

Get something for me and you and your friends, too.

Please.

It's all covered.

Okay.

So, what are we seeing?

Seeing?

You mean which movie?

Yeah, I was hoping one of those Raiders of the Missing Ark films.

Man, I love those.

Uh, tonight is my premiere, Dad.

Remember?

Yeah, of course.

Yeah.

What's a feature?

What's a feature?

It's a film term.

It means long.

Not too long, I hope.

Okay, thanks for coming, Dad.

I want you to go find your seat.

Okay, well, who are all these people?

Why don't you go investigate?

Introduce yourself.

What's Oedipus?

That's not right.

They gotta change that.

I wanna see that film.

Uh, it's Oedipus, Dad.

Hey, Octavio.

You excited for tonight?

A little smaller than I thought it would be.

It's almost a thousand seats.

Oh, hey, you know my, uh, gaffer, Ravi?

His girlfriend works for the, uh, Futura Grant committee.

Anyway, I guess there might be good news.

Yeah, you heard that, huh?

It's crazy.

They told me I was a finalist, but I've been trying to get it out of my mind.

So, you excited for a live audience to see your work?

Kinda.

You know, the color of the city shots?

I was hoping for a little more...

smoke.

Like in scene 22?

Yeah, I guess we could have done that, but I didn't

really want to add something like that into VFX.

Oh, I'm talking reshoots.

Reshoots?

We premiere the film in like an hour.

I just feel like everybody should be more in

silhouette, you know, with shadows and fog.

Yeah, cause that's what audiences are clamoring for.

Dark talking clouds.

You just don't get it.

I'll be out in a sec.

What is this?

Chaos at the cinema.

Local moviegoers rioting the disaster of a lifetime.

It all begins with mediocre looking Jacob Sanders

He wanted to be in the motion picture business.

He thought himself an artist but it turns out he's more of a con artist.

Hey, are you showing this on purpose?

Growing up in a broken home, Jacob always used make believe as an escape.

His active imagination his only asset.

Bed wetting his main talent.

Is this a joke?

All this and more tonight.

Don't miss Terror on the Silver Screen.

Hi, how are you?

So, are tickets for Oedipus Lex on sale yet?

Yeah, probably.

Awesome.

I should have one comp but I need three more.

Really?

Yeah.

You sure?

Please.

Thank you.

These are non-refundable, you know.

Thank you.

Hi.

Just checking on the title of the film.

That it's written correctly for Oedipus Lex.

Yes.

I redid it for you.

No, that's not...

Hello, box office.

Tonight is a special indie screening of, um, Oedipus?

Why don't you let me field that one?

Yes, sir.

I'm the producer.

Yes, tonight is a special feature for sure.

Yes, it's the premiere and first ever screening of Oedipus Lex.

Uh, no, the premiere is scheduled to start at 7.30.

Henry Gannon?

Uh, yeah, of course.

8.30.

Well, yeah, I guess for Henry Gannon we can.

Yeah.

Jacob!

Jacob!

Jacob!

You are not going to believe who I just got off the phone with.

Who?

Do you want to guess?

Vern, believe it or not, I'm a little productive

right now, so I'm not in the mood for a guessing game.

Right, yeah, sorry.

You don't have to guess.

Although you're never going to believe who it was.

Vernon?

Oh, yeah, sorry.

Okay, I just answered a call from Henry Gannon.

Henry Gannon?

Yeah, Henry Gannon.

Apparently he's a fan of the theater and he saw on the website that there was a

world premiere of your film and he wants to come.

Are you serious?

Holy shit!

Wow!

Oh my god, that's great.

So he actually said the film's name.

Wait, did he say my name?

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

He said Jacob Sanders Oedipus Lez.

Lex.

Yeah.

No, I know.

But he was right there.

You know what I mean?

Oh my god, that's incredible.

I would love to have a celebrity here.

And he said that he was definitively coming tonight.

Yes.

What do you mean?

You hesitated.

No, it's just that I think he might have said that he might be coming.

Ugh, okay.

You know, might means a lot of things.

A lot of people say that they might do something, like

I might run a marathon or I might explode out of stress.

Yeah, I know, I know, but he really might be coming.

Okay, there is a very good chance.

Although there is one little thing.

He, um, he wants to come at 8.30 instead of 7.30.

Why would he say 8.30?

Because I might have told him that we'd start at 8.30.

Vernon!

Look, look, I know, I know, I know, but I asked around

and apparently a lot of local premieres start late.

I guess it's very common for this kind of thing.

So there's no reason to be ashamed.

How am I gonna wrangle these lunatics if we push the start time back a full hour?

Well, maybe we can, like, vamp a little bit, you know?

Um, you could field questions before it starts.

Questions?

No one does a Q&A before the movie starts.

What are they gonna ask questions about?

You know, you could talk about the future, Grant.

No, no, no, no, no.

I don't want to talk about that and you shouldn't either, okay?

That's not final yet at all.

Okay, yeah.

Sorry.

Um, what do you want to do?

Shit, what time is it?

Um, late.

Okay, I gotta go check in with the projectionist,

but we can figure this out later, okay?

Okay, yeah.

I'll think on it.

Hey, my man!

You're here with the concert tonight, right?

No, no, I'm the filmmaker with the film premiere, uh, Oedipus Lex.

Oedipus!

Right on!

I saw them at, uh, the Metro in 97.

You remember Dan Ketchevich?

First guy didn't put a pill on his bass drum,

had that big resonant ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba.

Ba-ba-ba-ba, like, shook the mortar out of the bricks.

Great track.

Excited to see what happens here.

Oedipus Lex.

I think my producer dropped off a DCP here last week.

Right on, man.

I remember that for sure.

Totally tested that.

Just gotta find out where I left it.

Also, random question, but did you play a joke video on the main screen?

Like a prank on me or something uh, like 15 minutes ago?

What?

I thought that I saw, like, a joke video.

Like, did someone make a video and then you played it as a prank on me?

I wish.

Dude, that would be awesome.

Okay, forget I said anything.

Shit.

What?

Well...

I don't think I have it.

You don't have it?

You just said that you tested it.

I'm sorry, my man.

I lied when I said I tested it.

I think I kinda meant I remember wanting to test it.

We have hundreds of people coming to the world premiere and you lost my film?

Is that what you're telling me?

Oh, shit, dude.

It's cool.

It's cool.

I can find it.

What's it called?

Oedipus Lex.

What's it about?

It's a metaphoric dark comedy.

A love story set in the DC universe.

A small town teenager is in love with a girl.

I do remember that.

Found it.

What the hell?

Man, why was my film in the trash can?

No, no, don't worry, dude.

That's my watched bin.

I keep different bins to help me stay organized.

It's a classic bin system.

Jesus.

Okay.

Sorry for the mix-up, my man.

Let's test this sucker.

Well, Mr. Luther said that Smallville Bank is in millions of debt.

Oh.

Hey, how'd it look?

It's a disaster.

It's pathetic.

They didn't test the DCP and it's going to be a complete debacle.

Okay.

Okay.

We have plenty of contingency plans here in my docs.

Was it the lighting or scene 47?

Because everyone has an issue with that one.

The look of the aerials in the forest is...

blah.

The look wasn't the issue as much as the sound.

The sink was completely off, like so insanely off.

Okay, well, I mean, did they not get the DCP that we sent?

Because I'm certain I had Boris send it here from LA.

I mean, unless he sent it to...

Oh, no.

It's not in my building lobby.

Things get lost in there for months.

Vernon, I don't know what the problem was, but I think

we have to use the backup files from my old hard drive.

Okay.

Oh, shit.

My old hard drive is at my old place.

Abby's place.

Abby's place.

God.

I don't even know if I can get there and back in time.

Okay.

Don't panic.

I can get it.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

You have networking opportunities here.

I'll go.

Okay, if Henry Gannon is going to get here to

see a movie at 8.30, we better play it at 8.31.

Alright?

Alright.

In my apartment, the key to my old place is on my desk.

Alright, go to my apartment, grab the key, swing by Abby's, get the hard drive,

then come back as soon as you can, okay?

Yeah, your place, key, Abby's back.

45 minutes.

Stop.

You can handle this, right?

I can count on you to do this?

Yes.

Great.

Yeah, copy that.

Thank you so much.

I'll be back.

Yes.

Go.

Go, go, go, go.

Yes, yes, yes.

Hey, folks.

Um, we may have a little delay with the 7.30 in the main theater.

We'll probably push back a little bit.

So, if any anybody, um, complains, uh, we'll just tell them it's a slight delay.

And if you have to, give them a free small popcorn.

I mean, if they turn asshole on you.

Okay.

It shouldn't be that big a deal.

Okie dokie.

Ugh.

Why can't they just pick a time and stick to it?

I know.

I hate it when they start late.

I've got this whole evening planned out later.

A whole evening?

Like, what are you gonna do when you get out of here?

You're not going to have dinner or anything.

Sure I am.

What is wrong with this thing?

Now the tickets aren't going through.

Anyhow, yes.

No.

Dinner after the movie.

Dinner at 11 o'clock?

No.

You eat before the movie.

I prefer to eat later.

It's more European that way.

You know, I heard in Spain they don't eat dinner until like 1 o'clock in the morning.

What did you do?

Hello, everyone.

Thank you for coming.

What's going on?

I'd like to set the record straight and field any questions you might have.

Who's doing this?

Yes, why did you intend to make such an embarrassing and irritating movie?

Well, I didn't actually want to...

What we're trying to accomplish is putting messy garbage into the form of a film.

That's not what this is.

This isn't actually... Would you consider yourself the

worst filmmaker of all time or just generally incompetent?

No, that's not a real question.

Do you have a diagnosed disorder or perhaps a genetic syndrome that you inherited?

Not that this is any of your business, but I'd like to

address my career goals for being a professional filmmaker.

Have you done any research online to find resources

for your obvious mental and psychological issues?

Octavio!

I'm fine, I guess.

Doing gigs here and there, you know?

Oh, my God.

Holy fuck.

I've been on like eight to twenty auditions, maybe booked three gigs.

These politics are a nightmare.

Things have picked up since I got my red Komodo.

Cool!

A lizard!

It's a camera.

I knew that.

I did.

Hey, I gotta go do a thing, but I'll be right back.

But if anyone asks, I'm still here.

Unless it's Jacob.

In which case, tell him I did.

Okay.

So when's this thing gonna start?

I don't know.

I heard they might cancel it.

No.

Oh, my God.

You are like the funniest guy I know.

You're so silly.

You're fun.

Let's have some fun.

Okay.

But the thing I like most about it about it is... What the heck is going on here?

Don't they realize the movie's gonna be starting in like five minutes?

I'm sure it's been delayed for some reason.

I don't know why they have to schmooze with

the filmmakers so much before the screening.

They could easily do it after.

Who cares about the filmmakers?

Well, it's the world premiere and they are local.

It's a movie, not organic produce.

Who cares if it's local?

Listen, I just care about getting popcorn.

I don't see anyone inside with popcorn.

I see that there's someone working on the machine.

Are you kidding me?

Hey, Abby.

Sorry for calling.

I mean, I texted, but this is kind of an urgent thing.

But the premiere is tonight and we kind of need a video file from your apartment,

so if there's any way...

My doctor told me that my bones are something to be considered at my age,

and he's telling me what he thinks I need to do.

He doesn't know what he's talking about.

Jacob, so listen.

I know this is your big little screening and everything, and I

don't want to spoil anything, but ticket sales are quite low.

Really?

I don't know what's going on.

I guess people didn't post about it enough.

I thought at least the cast and crew would.

Yes, I know.

That's disappointing, but you know what?

Hey, hey.

We still have some time, okay?

Oh, by the way, the popcorn machine has had some

hiccups, so there may not be popcorn tonight.

And we want to keep the moviegoers happy, so we might have to give away some comps.

Jesus, what else could go wrong?

Why?

What else?

I'm a projectionist, and the audio sync is way off.

Well, that's no good.

Why did you do that?

I mean, you definitely have to sync the audio with your film.

Even I know that.

Nothing is wrong with the film, okay?

It must be that DCP that we made.

But it's okay.

I sent Vernon home to get a file that we can use.

Oh, my God.

How long will that take?

I don't know.

I keep checking in, but he should be back probably soon.

I've started taking charge, and I'm eating all the

foods that are gonna help me be like a bionic woman.

But we definitely should delay, especially

since Henry Gannon might make an appearance.

Wait, whoa, whoa.

What's this?

Your staff didn't tell you?

I thought they took the call.

No.

My producer, Vernon, spoke with Henry Gannon, the actor, and he saw something

online about the film, and he wants to come.

But he can't get here until 8.30, so can we please delay a little bit?

I know this is all such a huge headache.

Henry Gannon?

No, no, no, no.

We will definitely wait until 8.30.

What about keeping the moviegoers happy?

They're not Henry Gannon.

Fuck them.

And it's all tasty, too.

So I go 400 feet left at the light.

400 feet left at the light.

400 feet left at the...

Excuse me!

Excuse me!

Pardon me!

Independent artist coming through!

Thank you!

Roscoe!

Roscoe!

Roscoe!

Oh, Jacob!

Jacob!

Jacob, what is going on?

I heard we might be starting late.

Yeah, maybe.

Just a bunch of conflicts and someone might be coming.

Oh.

Who?

Well, I shouldn't have said anything.

It's not a big deal, just we might have to hold the

premiere in case this person comes a little later.

Oh my god.

Is it press?

Or like a big producer or someone?

I really shouldn't have said anything, okay?

Don't worry about it.

Just focus on having a good time.

Oh, come on.

Now I'm curious.

Forget it.

How about you go check in with the rest of the cast?

I thought more people from the film would be coming.

Yeah, I don't know.

I posted about it a ton.

They should all be here by now.

I put it on TikTok, StubHub, Instagram, Facebook... Oh, I've been meaning to ask you.

Why aren't there more people of color?

What?

Like in the world?

No, in the film.

You know, people expect you to be more diversity minded.

I honestly don't think you want to get into this with me right now, okay?

I hate dealing with people's assumptions about this.

I don't want to be categorized by my race.

I just want to make films.

I really just meant the poster.

The poster's abstract.

God, I can't deal with this right now.

Darling, what's going on?

I can help.

I promise I can.

Hey, uh, Abby, um, sorry for calling.

I mean, I texted, but this is kind of an urgent thing, um, but the premiere is

tonight, and we kind of need a video file from your

apartment, so if there's any way that somebody...

Nope.

Nope, that's a hard no.

Sorry about that.

Eat your saying?

What is taking so long?

They never start Spookathon late.

You know they're not showing it tonight, right?

Tonight's a special screening for local indie premiere.

What?

I, I checked online.

They did not say that yesterday.

Yeah, I think they updated the website this morning.

Uh, oh my god.

We've been standing in line for 25 minutes.

Sorry.

Oh, this is unbelievable.

Hey, are y'all in line for empanadas or for theater tickets?

Neither.

No.

What?

This is for the theater.

Ah, Jesus.

Well, this sucks.

Like, what, just a random indie film I don't know anything at all about?

Like, what if it's terrible and we just have to sit through it?

Yeah, or they do one of those, like, big Q&As afterwards.

Those are the worst, right?

I mean, why in the world would you allow some rando to walk up to the microphone

and then tell you their interpretations of your film?

I actually remember this one time.

I went to see Tristan Quarantino at the Palladium

and all the questions were about his foot fetish.

Oh my god, I've heard about that.

Yeah, yeah.

He does have a foot fetish.

Yeah, and he walked on stage afterwards and he took his shoes and socks off.

Oh, that is so him.

Honey, I think people are getting very hungry.

Can you see if they sell some nut packs or protein bars or something?

When is the movie gonna start?

I'm sorry, Mom, I can't right now.

I'm trying to get some friends to actually show up for the screening, but I'm sure if

you tell the concession people about your heart snacks, they'll listen intently.

One sec.

Hello, and, uh, how are things with you?

Hello, fine.

How are you?

Oh, me?

I'm not bad, really.

And, uh, well, what brings you out to the movies?

Tonight?

Jacob's film premiere?

I would normally prefer to go see some sort of nice musical or something,

but these little indie films make Jacob feel good.

Mm-hmm.

And, uh, how do you know Jacob again?

Oh, me?

Mm-hmm.

Well, you know, I'm his mother.

I grew him inside my body.

We were married 16 years, remember?

That rings a bell.

Sorry, guys, I gotta take care of a few things.

Uh, Dad, why don't you come with me?

Man, I could've sworn your mom was sick to speak right now.

So, you're kind of a big shot now, huh?

I wouldn't put it that way.

Well, this is your film, right?

All these people are here to see your film right now, right?

You're a film guy now.

Jake, I'm proud of you.

Thanks, Dad.

That actually means a lot to me.

You know, not a lot of people have positive things to say in this industry,

so... So, what's the 30 on the 30 mean?

Is that like a math equation?

Nah, it's this article the paper wrote.

It mentions one of the top filmmakers in the city who's under 30 years old.

I read you were 29 out of 30.

That's like last place, right?

No, it's not like that.

It's out of hundreds, if not thousands, of filmmakers.

You know what's a great movie?

Indiana James and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Man, that's a good movie.

Indiana Jones and... I know you love that movie.

So, it's in your movie?

Who?

Indiana Jones!

No, I don't have the fictional character of

Indiana Jones in my low-budget indie film.

Okay.

Missed opportunity, I guess.

Hey, Siri?

Um, make a note.

Sign Jacob up for organizational skills workshop.

We were waiting outside for so long, and for what?

What is the holdup?

I don't know.

No one's getting any popcorn.

What about like candy or soda pop?

Do you see anybody here with candy or soda pop?

Soda pop?

I've never heard you say soda pop before in your life.

You sound like my grandpa.

What is the problem?

I do not have... You sound old.

Can you... Can we just please?

How is there this many people here?

This makes no sense at all.

I looked up this guy's earlier work.

Not great.

The characters are so predictable.

Yeah.

And so one-dimensional.

Exactly.

Exactly.

I mean, people don't just open their mouth and

then just orate what they were thinking, alright?

It's so unrealistic.

Hey!

I am tired of waiting, and I want popcorn and soda pop.

What's going on?

We're having some issues with the popcorn machine.

Can you fix it?

I think so.

There's something clogging the kernel trap or the air duct.

I don't know.

I'm not a carpenter.

I'm not sure what's best.

Have you seen the manager?

Uh, I think he might be in the lounge.

Alright, I'll go find him.

Oh, um, a few people have started to ask about what time the movie's going to start.

I don't know.

I don't know either, okay?

It might be 15, 20 minutes.

We had to hold in case this VIP shows up.

Oh!

Is it Andy Shannon?

You got a call just a few minutes ago.

Hey, can you do me a favor?

Please just try and keep it quiet, you know?

We're not sure if he's actually coming.

But, was he asking for me, like, personally, or?

Yeah, um, no.

Um, who are you again?

Never mind, I will go find the manager.

Oh, uh, we can just charge all the popcorn to that guy.

I heard he got some big Grant.

Oh, yeah, that's good idea.

Please pick up the phone.

Voicemail.

Um, hi!

Hi, uh, Abby.

Um, it's, uh, it's Vernon DeAngelis.

Um, uh, that's uh, V-E-R-N-O-N.

Um, listen, I'm calling because I'm the producer of the new feature film,

uh, Oedipus Lex, by, um, Jacob Sanders.

Your former lover.

Anyhow, uh, I believe he reached out to you via phone, um,

because we really needed a hard drive in your apartment.

So, uh, if you could give us a call back, uh, it would be greatly appreciated.

Mm-hmm.

Call him.

Call him.

Okay.

No.

Mmm...

Nope, don't like it.

Don't like it.

Don't like it.

Don't like it.

So, I just want to say, you're my absolute favorite.

Um... I loved you in my son's last video.

Oh my goodness, that means the world to me.

I, I really appreciate it, cause you know, people don't know how hard it really is.

You have all these lines, you have to memorize, and

then they go ahead and cut your most emotional scene.

It just sometimes makes you feel like less than as a performer,

so knowing I got one person happy just makes me so happy.

You know, you were my favorite actress in that whole Princess Train one.

Princess?

It was just so cute.

And you got the hat, and I always love it

when costumes get the attention they deserve.

Have you seen that Sandington Place movie?

Yeah, I know it.

You know, my friend Barb was an actress, too.

We were roommates.

Sophomore year in college.

She was just so funny.

She would dance all the time and sing.

Barbara did theater for a while until she met and

married a nice young software engineer for IBM.

And then they had to move to North Carolina.

Can you imagine?

Uh-huh.

Hi, uh, how's it going?

Um, enjoying the drinks?

What?

Yes, hello Abby.

Um, I was just checking in about the hard drive.

I just wanted to make sure that you got sort of the notes.

Okay, okay.

I'll come here in a second.

Hi, Vernon.

Yeah, I know who you are.

I've had to see you almost every week of my life for the past three years.

I don't give a shit about your stupid fucking hard drive or your silly little movie.

Okay, both you and Jacob are honestly obsessed with it.

And it's not healthy.

Leave me alone right now or I swear to God I will go and find that fucking hard drive

and I will smash it into a thousand little pieces.

Fuck off!

Thank you.

Oh, no.

Park man, I want some popcorn.

If you'll just be patient, sir, I will have more popcorn available shortly.

I think these people are ready to tear us apart.

What is wrong with it?

I don't know.

I think the temperature was too high and there's a

bunch of steaming hot kernels packed in the back there.

Okay, can you dislodge it somehow?

Do you want to try?

I've been trying and it's way too hot to touch.

No, I'm not sticking my hand in there.

Oh, my God.

Hi.

I want some popcorn, please.

Okay, okay.

What's going on here?

So the popcorn machine has stopped working.

There's a bunch of steaming hot kernels packed in the back.

Have you tried just jamming them out?

Well, I'm not willing to risk my health and

safety to dislodge some steaming hot kernels.

And frankly, you have a responsibility Okay, okay, okay.

Just move.

I'll take care of it.

Thank you.

Damn it.

Was it hot?

I got it.

I got it.

There you go.

But it burned right?

Yeah, that's what burning flesh smells like.

Just like that.

There you go.

Excuse me.

Popcorn.

All right.

Okay, who's next?

I want a medium popcorn.

Okay, great.

Oh, hey, Jacob.

Is it okay if some of my friends still come tonight?

I think they were gonna go out and get some drinks or something after rehearsal.

Sounds like fun.

I wish I could go.

Yeah, I don't know yet.

Okay.

Sure, yeah, they can come.

Please invite them.

Okay, cool.

Why don't you say something funny and I'll post it?

I'm not a TikTok star, Leah.

Got it.

Add a puppy dog face.

Good.

evening and welcome to Channel 6 News.

And thanks for joining us on this brisk fall evening.

Our top story tonight, disturbing reports from a famed

local movie theater as a film screening turns violent.

Childish and uninteresting writer-director Jacob Sanders completely embarrassed

himself this evening, right before being torn apart limb from limb in a slow,

bloody, and painful death.

Allegedly, audience members became uncontrollably

irate after watching his stupid, shitty film.

Eyewitness accounts describe Jacob as actually

crying and looking generally ugly and stupid.

Some even say he may have wet his pants like a little baby boy.

And now over to Sammy with the weekend weather.

Sorry, sorry about the delays, everyone.

The doors to the main theater should be open shortly,

and you can still get concessions and beverages galore.

Hey, stop saying that.

It has an odd sexual feel when you say it.

Charisma is everything.

Are you going to get that?

I am trying to get the chip reader to go faster.

Yes, hello, box office.

Well, it was supposed to start at 7.30, and

it's almost 8 now, and it hasn't started yet.

Oh, yeah, Jacob Sanders?

I don't know.

I'll take that, I'll take that.

Thank you.

Yes, hello.

Oh, Mr. Gannon!

Hi, how are you?

Oh, goodness, 8.30, that's no problem at all.

No, you know what?

We haven't even opened the house doors yet, so...

Yes, but hey, you know, just I am a big fan.

I've seen all your work, and I...

No, I'm not a stalker, just a fan.

Okay, see you soon.

Okay, fine.

Ha ha!

There you go!

Good, good, good!

...

... ...

Yes!

... ...

...

Hey, Octavio, are you excited?

I would be.

It's a pretty big night, you know.

You think there'll be any talent agents here?

I don't know.

Well, I'm hoping there'll be some industry peeps.

Did you hear about Henry Gannon?

I think he's coming to the screening.

Yup.

Well, that should bring some attention, you know.

I mean, this is the most screen time I've ever had in a film.

I think I have like 190, maybe like 200 lines.

The whole thing is like a close-up of my face.

I wanted to shoot you more, and...

like silhouette with like backlighting, but...

Jacob didn't like it.

Ugh, well, he has a bit of an ego, right?

I mean, he's always thinking about how this will affect him.

Like, I'm in this too.

I need this to do well for my exposure.

Do you ever think about moving to LA?

Why?

Los Angeles!

Hollywood!

The scene, auditions, the weather, bigger movies, TV, movies.

Movies aren't artistic anymore.

It's just the big blockbusters with the huge budgets.

It's just for more eyes on the screen.

They're just trying to sell you more shit.

Ugh, I would love to be in one of those.

Sell people shit.

Good evening, and thanks for tuning into Film Talk tonight.

This evening, our guest is local Chicago filmmaker Jacob Sanders.

A multimedia artist, self-centered director, and all-around bad person.

Jacob's latest film is the biggest waste of time yet, and upset his parents to no end.

Jacob, thanks for joining me today.

Happy to be here.

My first question, really, the only question, is why?

Why did you make another film?

Why did you waste everyone's time?

Why did you show it to people?

Well, you see, every work of art has an audience, and I think for this film,

I was really... Why are you such a fuck-up?

Shit, shit, shit, um... Abby, don't, don't, don't...

Abby, um, how are you?

Vernon!

Jacob?

I just got off the phone with someone you may have heard of.

Yeah, I can guess.

Henry Gannon?

Yep, yep, so we definitely should hold a little while longer, right?

Mm-hmm.

How are ticket sales, by the way?

Well, they're trickling in, but still not great.

I don't know what else I can do.

I can beg people, I guess.

Anyway, I'm not sure how much longer we can hold, but if you get a chance to talk

to Mr. Gannon, do you think you could mention that, uh,

the theater is having a fundraising event next month?

I mean, there should be wine, there should be kukuri, and square dancing.

Yeah, you got it, okay?

Jacob really is a genius.

He just has this deep understanding for where to look, you know?

Really get the shot.

And he knows how to push you as an actor, you know?

Really dive deep in those long hours and those uncomfortable moments.

Uh-huh.

Yeah, I wonder when the movie's gonna start.

Have you heard of Fancy Gourd Coppola?

I think it's Halloween story.

Are you Jacob Sander's father?

Mm-hmm.

Can I ask you some questions about his background?

Well, first, he's not adopted.

He was, uh, really close there for a while

Oh, oh, Mr. Sanders, why don't we go get a treat before the film starts?

Oh, I'd like an ice cream bar.

Okay.

Yeah.

Hey, Vernon, where are you?

We need those video files here as soon as you can, okay?

Please, just call me back.

Sir, I ordered an ice cream bar.

Yes, you're holding it.

No, I ordered an ice cream bar, and I want an ice cream bar to eat it!

It's right there in your hand.

Well, just stop bothering this nice young girl.

Suck a shit!

Oh, okay, Dad.

Oh, damn it!

Oh!

Mom?

It's okay, I get it.

I'm okay.

I'm okay!

Just a little weak in the knees, I guess, from

staring around waiting for this movie to start.

That lady's on the floor.

Hey, Josh, what time is the movie going to start?

People keep asking me.

Jesus Christ.

Jacob.

Jacob, Jacob, Jacob.

Whoa, hey, hey.

I got the file.

You got it?

Yeah.

Oh my God, where is it?

There you go.

Yes.

Yes, thank you.

Thank you so much.

You're welcome.

Your apartment's gonna be a little messy, but it's... Whatever.

I gotta go test this in the projectionist booth, okay?

All right, thank you.

Jacob!

Jacob, Jacob, uh, what can I do?

Um, you can go give tickets to anybody who wants them outside.

Anybody?

Anybody.

Anybody.

Hey, my man!

Is that screening still happening tonight?

Cause my Van's parked at the hospital.

Yes.

All right, I got the file right here.

Can you, can you run it through your computer into the projector?

Hell yeah, brother.

Let me just wrap up this empanada and I'll be right with ya.

Please, right now.

We were supposed to open the theater like an hour ago.

We just gotta test this to make sure that it works.

Okay.

I can do this.

Where's my laptop?

Right here.

Hey, look at you!

You the man!

All right, let's just take this little doggie and put him in this little thing.

Uh-uh.

Wahoo!

Oh,

oh, oh, oh, folks!

Hello, hello!

Um, tonight there is a world premiere film event happening.

Oh, wow, what's playing?

A little indie film starring yours truly.

I don't know.

I mean, why do I go to a theater when I got web flicks, I got U-Hub?

Uh, there's even a confirmed rumor that a big celebrity will be in attendance.

Oh, really?

Who?

I really shouldn't say.

But it's Henry Gannon.

Henry Gannon?

Yeah.

Henry Gannon's gonna be here tonight?

Where's he gonna be?

Tonight?

Where?

Tell me!

At my film.

At my movie.

Come see me in a movie.

Henry Gannon's gonna be here?

Can I get two more?

Can I get two more?

Yeah, of course.

Henry Gannon!

Henry Gannon, yeah.

Wow!

Oh my goodness!

Why haven't they opened up the theater yet?

I'm already halfway done with my popcorn.

If we leave right now, we can make it to Bourgeois Pig in 18 minutes.

I'm gonna see if they do free refills.

I would rather be sick in the toilet than have to watch this film.

You're right.

I'm gonna ask.

Hi, folks!

The theater is now open.

Get your seats, please.

Um, ma'am?

You don't have to make any announcements.

Our staff will definitely communicate when the theater is open.

Well, I'm sorry.

I'm just trying to be helpful.

When's the theater gonna open?

Actually, pretty soon.

Well, fabulous.

No need to thank me.

Hello, everyone.

Brief announcement.

The theater's gonna open up in ten minutes.

Hey, that lady over there said the theater's open now.

What?

Okay, the theater's opening up any minute.

Mm-hmm.

I saw what you did.

Hello.

To what are you referring?

You eating and eating, popping your little candies from your satchel there.

I don't have any candy.

I don't know what you're talking about.

I don't pop candy.

I've been trying to avoid artificial sweeteners, but I do like getting antioxidants.

Everybody knows when you go to the movies, you stop eating.

If you wanna eat, go to France.

Lower your voice.

Can we please just be civil, especially for Jacobson?

I'm the most civil person in the world.

Everybody calls me Mr. Civil.

Ha!

I doubt that.

Can't even hear the movie from all your loud mooing.

The movie hasn't even started yet.

Dad, cut it out.

Mom, why don't you go move people towards the theater?

Yeah, go move people towards the theater.

Okay, and Dad, just go talk to Vernon.

Go find Vernon.

Go talk to Vernon over there.

Who the hell is Vernon?

You'll find him.

Hey, I'm sorry if I started any conflicts around here.

No, no, no.

Don't worry about it.

I'm chill.

You know, cool.

I'm Mr. Cool.

And these things, they don't bother me.

You want to do that interview real quick?

You ready?

Yeah.

Great.

Great.

Hello, box office.

Oh.

Yeah.

One sec.

Hello, this is Vernon, one of the co-producers

of the upcoming independent feature, Oedipus...

Press.

No, there's no red carpet or anything.

Well, I just...

No, we're very excited to have Mr. Gannon.

Thank you so much for doing this.

I really appreciate it.

Of course.

Any press attention is good for the film.

Alright, I'm here with Jacob Sanders, award-winning Chicago filmmaker,

premiering his first feature film.

So, how does it feel?

Sorry, you're recording this?

Just, like, for your notes though, right?

Oh, yeah, I'm recording, but this is the video for posting.

My followers love video content.

Sorry, I thought this was going to be mainly in print?

Like, you would type this up?

Oh, yeah, I will, for sure.

Great.

Sorry.

Go ahead.

I'm here with Jacob Sanders, premiering his first feature film tonight.

So, how does it feel?

It feels really rewarding.

You know, we, meaning the entire cast and crew, worked

incredibly hard on this film for nearly three years.

You know?

And it's exciting to finally see it on the big screen and to share it with the world.

Last year, you were honored with the 30 Under 30 Media

Makers list, but only barely being last on the list.

How has that status changed you?

You know, I'm truly honored to have been included, and I think the exact rankings

were an odd choice, but I actually haven't really been changed at all by it.

But I am turning 30 next month, so I can't be included next year.

You know, 30 under 30.

So, some of your short films have been recognized by local film societies,

critics, and festivals alike, but so far, nothing for your new film.

Like, why do you think that is?

Uh, probably because no one has seen it yet.

This is a world premiere, you know, so no one, not even

critics or press, have actually had a chance to view it yet.

What do you think is the purpose of independent filmmaking when there are so

many fun Captain Super movies available on streaming?

Um...

Film is an art form.

You know, I think it's best viewed in a real life space with

an audience because there are so many unique perspectives.

Films actually can inspire us.

The more independent artists there are creating, the better our society will be.

Okay.

Well, I think I have enough.

Is there anything else you want to say?

Uh, no.

No, not really.

Can you remind me of the publication again?

The Forest Hills Scout?

It's my school's paper.

School?

Like, college or film school?

Oh my god!

Um, college is next year, but I'm a senior at Forest Hills High School.

Cool!

Cool!

Well, I know you're short on time, so I'll let you get back to it.

Thanks.

Thank you.

No!

Hi.

Welcome back to Cinema Specs.

Our final film for this evening is something of the, uh, bizarre freak show variety.

Stop!

What is this?

From first time director Jacob Sanders, Oedipus Lex.

Whew!

What did you think of this?

Yeah, well, freak shows.

I was putting it mildly.

I thought this was a true nightmare.

I mean, it felt like being strapped to a medieval torture device.

It was hard to watch the whole thing.

Oh, yeah.

The title was confusing to me.

I wasn't sure if this was a reference to the classic Greek play, or the Freudian

psychological complex, or just a super villain thing.

Yeah, the plot, the characters, the staging, all of

it, from top to bottom, really just sucked so hard.

Yeah, it was confusing, unnerving, and frankly, just a bunch of nonsense.

Yeah, it was incoherent.

It was stupid.

The director of this movie, I hope he gets food poisoning for a whole week.

I hated this movie.

Oh, it's one of the worst things I've ever seen.

It was an awful, awful experience.

I'll be honest, I've never seen an intense

mental breakdown come out as a movie before.

And it was scary, but fascinating.

Like a train wreck, I couldn't look away.

Abby was right to break up with you.

She always hated you.

And rightfully so.

You never brought much to the relationship.

She was doing all the heavy lifting.

Her parents didn't like you.

Your parents don't like you.

Nobody likes you.

That's why we give this film four thumbs way down.

I don't want to see this.

I don't want to see this.

Why is it that whenever I have something important to me, you

always seem to have something more important film related?

I do my best to prioritize you.

I just don't make the schedule for these events.

Just don't go.

We have dinner plans.

I can't.

Okay?

Can you go without me?

Yes.

Yes, I can.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

Oh, hey, I'm supposed to let you know that Henry Gannon

is on his way and they're going to open the theater now.

Okay, cool.

Did he say what time he's going to get here?

Sorry, no.

I'm just a bit distracted.

Abby yelled at me pretty hard and I'm honestly a little scared of her and I kind

of broke into her apartment and she said she was going to kill me.

What are you saying right now?

You know, you should really be more appreciative.

I have done everything that you have asked of me.

Do you know how much running I did tonight?

When I got back here, I threw up in the bathroom four times.

There's no toothbrush.

There's no mouthwash.

I've got to live with this.

Call for your stupid movie file.

I'm so sorry.

I'm a failure.

I can't do anything right.

And everything I try eventually turns to shit.

Is that what you wanted to hear?

So, where do you want to sit?

Down front, maybe?

You know, actually, I was hoping we could sit in the back.

Just in case this is terrible and we want to leave.

I can't believe this hasn't started yet.

We're supposed to be halfway done.

They better not have any previews.

We've got a train to catch.

Pardon me, madam.

May I squeeze past you?

There are plenty of other seats in the other aisles.

Why don't you have a seat over there?

I don't want to sit over there because I want to see my son's film on the big screen.

Oh, come on.

Can you just... There's a good seat right there.

Can't you just sit down?

In fact, I need the aisle seat in case I need to

get up during the movie to go to the bathroom.

Well, then you should sit further back.

So you can be closer to your beloved bathroom.

Oh, what is the holdup?

Just pick a seat already.

Pardon me.

Move it.

Fine.

You can have your precious aisle seat.

Let me just give you everything you want.

Nothing changes in 35 years.

Nothing changes except your bad guy job.

Shut up!

What the... Yeah, it was that lady that fell.

Jacob, stop.

Stupid.

No... ... ...

... ... ... ... No, no, no... Stop!

...

... ...

Makeup, we're ready for you now.

There's an issue with the hair light.

There's a C-stand in the way.

Let's just drop it down low so the stand's under the frame, projecting the light up.

Okay.

Hey, hair and makeup keep asking me if they're wrapped for the day.

We'll definitely need them for last looks on a safety

take after this one, so give them an early lunch.

Leah, you good?

Any questions?

No?

Alright, let's crank it up to like a nine for this one, okay?

Alright, everyone, we ready to try one?

Yeah?

Alright.

Blocking just like in rehearsal, cast in first positions.

Everyone get ready for a take.

Alright, and remember, have fun.

Alright, and... action!

Well, Mr. Luther said that small, little tank is...

You're back, you're back.

Oh my god, hi.

Hey, Vernon.

Um, Jacob, I know I'm probably the last person you would hear say this,

but I don't know how much longer we can wait for amazing celebrities to show up.

We're gonna start in three minutes, okay?

I'm gonna go inside, give a little speech.

Theo, look out for Henry Gannon.

Of course.

Vernon, I'm so sorry that I was so dismissive earlier.

Find Octavio, and then go to the projectionist booth, see if there's a

spotlight or something that can light me as I give the speech, and make sure that

they start the film as soon as I leave the stage.

You got it, boss.

How can I help?

Alright, go inside the theater, make sure that the audience finds their

seats closer to the front, and, you know, tell a few jokes and be your charming self.

Alright?

No problem.

Great, great, great, great.

Still showing this movie?

Absolutely.

Thanks.

So, the movie's gonna start.

Wow.

Oh man, I can't wait to see Henry Gannon.

Yeah?

Hey, you're here.

Yeah.

It felt kind of badly about how much I yelled at Vernon earlier.

I was gonna just text him, but, I don't know, I... I guess I wanted to be here.

Wow, that's... I appreciate it.

Well, it's a really big deal, and you worked so hard on it.

I just wanted to stop by.

Thanks.

Actually, we did better tonight than we did last week, same day and time.

Yeah, we definitely sold more booze than usual.

Do you know who Jacob Sanders is?

He has a $600 tab.

Hi, everyone.

Welcome, and thank you so much for making it out tonight

to see the world premiere of our new film, Oedipus Lex.

It's so meaningful that you all came tonight in person.

The theater.

Not only does the Music Box have a near century long history of showing meaningful

films, but they also help and support local artists

like no other entertainment venue in the city.

Film, as an art form, is in trouble.

Cinemas across the country are closing and filmmakers are losing out.

We used to go to the movies to experience something together.

Hundreds of people, sitting in the same theater, watching the same story,

sharing a tiny little bond.

In this disconnected culture, we need to experience things ourselves.

With actual light from a projector, surrounded by

sound, enveloped in darkness, focused on shared vision.

These real cinema experiences can inspire, heal, inform, and so much more.

It is vital that we continue to support art.

But even more important, that we support artists.

We don't know where the next transformational artist is going to come from.

We need to nurture creative minds to help them grow.

I wouldn't be here tonight without the love and support of the cast and crew,

and friends, and family.

A little piece of me is in this film, along with all the people who helped make it.

Many of you are here tonight.

And I specifically want to thank our producer and my best friend, Vernon

DeAngelis, for all of his hard work on this film.

Thank you for watching.

Thank you for being here.

And without further ado, please enjoy the premiere.

Jacob Sanders.

Jacob Sanders?

Yeah.

I'm Henry Gannon.

Hi, it's so nice to meet you.

Thank you so much for coming to our premiere.

You know, it's very exciting.

Yeah.

So, I heard you won the new Futura Grant.

Well, it's not finalized quite yet.

That's fantastic.

There must be a ton of money attached.

I've been getting into writing more and more.

And I was wondering if, maybe, would you want to

invest that money in this movie script I wrote?

.