The Stand-In (1999)

hyped garbage

It's entirely possible that sending the audience out feeling lousy was intentional

a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.

After playing with our expectations, this turns out to be a very different sort of film.

The Stand-In is a compelling story about an actor trying to catch his big break. The story is a realistic look at the cost and pain of trying to follow a dream and the sacrifices that come with that pursuit. Robbie Bryan does a nice job of creating characters that are real and easy to care about.One of the nicer story lines in the film is the relationship between Brian Roberts (Robbie Bryan) and Half-step Wilson (Lou Meyers). The friendship that develops between Brian and Half-step is touching and tender. Meyers gives an outstanding performance, showing both the bitterness of not being able to achieve his own dreams and the compassion he feels as he watches Brian try to chase his dream of becoming an actor.Even more gripping than the film's plot, are the bonus interviews included on the DVD. These interviews show you some of the real-life struggles and sacrifices Robbie Bryan and his collaborators faced to bring The Stand-In to the screen. I think the biggest success of the film and DVD is the fact that Bryan caused me to care not only for the characters in the movie, but, since it parallels his own life, to care about him and what happens in his own career. Well done, Robbie Bryan. I'm rooting for you!

This movie was so heart warming. A true testament to an actors real life everyday ups and downs.It was truly a wonderful experience to share the passion of the actor on film and respect for what it must have taken off screen. This film is a reminder to everyone to go for there dreams!Never give up!Hurray for The Stand -in!!!

Anyone who has ever gone on an audition can certainly relate to this one. Great story of an aspiring actor and the pressures he must deal with both personally and professionally in order to make it to the big time. Lou Myers, as Half-Step Wilson, provides many hilarious moments.

A sweet story with some really funny situations of trying to make it in the biz. Great for actors or family viewing. The scenes with the kid and the Negro League Baseball player were very cool. I also like the appearances by Joe Barbara of Another World and Kelly Ripa of All My Children.