That Little Monster (1994)

Paul Bunnell has concocted a wonderfully stylish and surreal movie. "That Little Monster" has tones of David Lynch, Tim Burton, Ed Wood, classic cinema, and the wonderful old Twilight Zones. This film echos the best of stunning Black and White photography. Ranging from the feel of the German Expressionist cinema to the mystery of "Eraserhead". Incredible lighting combines with fantastic framing and camera angles. It is a unique mix of styles, complete with the musical overture of bygone days. The masterful introduction sets the tone. And Bob Hope is a great addition. The world is familiar yet off, adding to the mystery. Absurd, hip, and fun. Paul Bunnell is a talent to watch.

That Little Monster is a nifty little art film that seems to be a cross between David Lynch's Eraserhead and the original Twilight Zone TV series. The experimental black & white cinematography is the real star of the show along with a campy puppet co-star named "Wolper Willock," an intentionally bad-looking monster baby that spoofs its genre. Look for a cameo appearance by a now deceased legendary comedian over the end credits. The Director's Commentary track on the DVD was entertaining and also provides a better overall appreciation for what the filmmakers were seemingly trying to accomplish. Definitely worth a look for fans of dark-horror-comedy and lovers of independent film.

The premise was intriguing but much too shallow to support even a short full length feature. The characters were shallow and uninteresting, as well. The scenes were fractured and added nothing to assist the viewer in understanding the plot or the point of the picture.The technical aspects of the film, on the other hand, were noteworthy. While some of the cinematography, especially in the opening scenes, was avant garde, those same techniques became blasé' from constant overuse by the end of the feature. While Paul Bunnell shows he has the unique technical ability to make a watch-worthy movie, the lack of any substantial plot, very plastic actors, and disjointed imagery do not so add up to an enjoyable event. Ed Wood, while a most technologically deficient film maker, at least produced somewhat interesting movies. I found this to be the most disappointing movie I have seen since "Weekend at Bernie's."

If you think you've seen them all, you had better see this one. Gave me goose bumps, and I chewed most of all my nails. (no kidding) Superb story line, and detailed mystery. Special effects very catching. 10+ rating from our family....