Director: Lake Bell,
Starring: Lake Bell, Ken Marino, Fred Melamed, Michaela Watkins, Rob Corddry, Alexandra Holden, Tig Notaro, Nick Offerman, Demetri Martin, Geena Davis, Eva Longoria,
Running Time: 89 Minutes
Certificate: 15
Extras: Commentary With Lake Bell, Alternate Opening Sequence, Deleted Scenes, In A World… Promo Trailers, Gag Reel,
IN A WORLD… may be more famous these days as the start to a mock trailer, but as is often the case, before there was parody it was used in earnest. The directorial debut of Lake Bell looks at the underappreciated world of voice over work and boils it down to a hilarious little microcosm all of its own. Bell takes the lead role herself as the daughter of one of the best in the industry, and although currently working as a vocal coach she is soon climbing the ladder to the big time of movie trailer voice-over work.
Bell’s script is sharp, clever, and very funny. Not only does it provide us with many great characters, often brought to life by Bell’s very talented cast mates from the wonderful Children’s Hospital, but it also pays respect to and lampoons the profession at the same time. That’s no easy task as it takes a great sense of humour and comic timing to both celebrate and make fun. Thankfully, Bell spends ample time commending the people of the industry, as well as taking things one step too far to show how easily things can become absurd.
The perfect casting allows for Bell’s words to be delivered with expert timing, as well as often seeming very natural. Many comedies take the improve sections too far these days and certain sequences feel as though they would have better been suited to the deleted scenes section of a DVD, here Bell shows she knows exactly how long a joke is funny for meaning there’s a fresh and fast pace throughout.
Among all the jokes and slightly bizarre progression through a world bit on voices, there is also plenty of emotional content although sometimes it seems shoehorned in as a filler subplot. There’s not much to make from the protagonist’s sister’s affair, but acting wise Corddry and Watkins absolutely nail the scene. It’s certainly an interesting diversion, but all involved are so good with what they have, you feel short changed at such a quick resolution..
Part underdog tale, as well as some feminist vibes that aren’t preachy or heavy handed, Bell makes a sublime impact in two male dominated areas, those being filmmaking and comedy. This is a rare film in that I heard next to nothing about it, but it is so enjoyable, likable, and such a pleasant watch, that it really does need a greater push behind it. Great one liners and hilarious celebrity cameos just complete a wonderful comic package that promises many more great times ahead for Bell and co.
[usr=4]IN A WORLD… is released on DVD on 20th January via Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
