Man Rots from the Head (2016)

A salesman on a bum route runs in to an odd lot.

Introduction
"Man Rots from the Head", directed by Joseph Sackett in 2016, is a short film that showcases varying intricacies of life. It depicts a day in the life of the protagonist, a director, who is hectic browsing his professional and personal life with humor and occasional awkwardness. It is a film centered around themes of imagination, human habits, awkwardness, and humor with an outstanding, amusing performance by lead star Michael Cera.

Plot
"Man Rots from the Head" represents a day in the life of Claude, played by Michael Cera, who is a director that is attempting to work on his new play. Cera's character is uncomfortable, and the humor comes from his interactions with others, specifically, his less-than-enthusiastic cast. The film starts with Claude telling the importance of routine in his life. He faces a little quarrel over a paper but plays it off effortlessly. This humorous yet uncomfortable beginning finishes up the atmosphere of the entire film.

Character Interaction
The interactions in between Claude and his cast are filled with humor. Though Claude is the director of the play, it promptly becomes clear that he does not have a stringent supremacy or command over his cast. This absence of authority raises the movie's humor. The mundane conversations, ludicrous situations, and comedic timing from the stars intensify the humor.

Performance
Michael Cera, as the lead actor, shines throughout the movie. His performance with the ideal mix of subtlety and humor paints a distinct protagonist image. The supporting cast, though having less screen time, performs splendidly to keep the film's comic position.

Style and Symbolism
The director skillfully instills significance into the movie. Claude's avoidance of dispute and his method to keep away from problem implies a deep-rooted fear of confrontation. The movie is likewise a take on the complexities of imagination, demonstrated by Claude's struggle to manage his group and script, mirroring his own realities.

Ending
Towards completion of the film, Claude's fleing from disputes deviates when he runs into an argument at the laundry shop. His reaction towards the situation was rather unforeseen and drives home his strange character. The climax comes full circle with Claude getting his hands on his preferred newspaper again, a subtle symbol of routine and normalcy in the middle of turmoil.

Conclusion
"Man Rots from the Head" is an entertaining peek into an imperfect man's life who is attempting to understand the disorderly world around him. The movie effectively utilizes humor to provide an unique lead character and his complicated life. The film's primary strength lies in its simpleness and excellent performances, especially Michael Cera's portrayal of an eccentric artist who accepts his eccentricities and becomes an unique character brimming with uncomfortable beauty.

Top Cast

  • Michael Cera (small)
    Michael Cera
    Sydney Ward
  • Alex Borstein (small)
    Alex Borstein
    Gladys
  • Michael McMillian (small)
    Michael McMillian
    Sheldon
  • Octavio Gómez Berríos (small)
    Octavio Gómez Berríos
    Amadeo
  • Nicole LaLiberte (small)
    Nicole LaLiberte
    Kitty Greenberg
  • Conrad Roberts (small)
    Conrad Roberts
    Mr. Z
  • Eileen Saki
    Myrtle
  • Jodie Turner-Smith (small)
    Jodie Turner-Smith
    Violet