“Verticals: The Movie” is a hilarious short film that was written and co-directed by Jack Rykert (along with Gavin J. Konop). #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos has the scoop.
It is certainly a love letter (and a roast) to the vertical format. It pokes fun at the tropes, the dramatic moments, and the humor of that world. It fulfills the ensemble comedy cardinal rule where every person brings something distinct to the table.
It showcases Jack Rykert‘s journey as Milo, an acting who has booked his first-ever gig, on a typical vertical set as he is about to shoot his first scene.
This short features cameos from such actors as Tess Dinerstein (as Aria), Dalia Chavez (as Cassidy), Bella Cruz (as Freedom), Jennigs Brower (who nails it as the High Priest), Jeff Violette as the campera operator, Mark Pontarelli as the director, Nicole Mattox (as the female lead), Eric Guilmette as the male lead, with Sarah Moliski and Marcus Palmer as the villains.
Rykert’s poignant scene with Bella Cruz is the emotional highpoint of the short, while the rest is witty and fun moments.
It was neat to see JC Ann, Christine Li, Jessica Jacoby, and Ashley Michelle Grant as the lunas, and the same holds true for Jared Staub, Steven Morana, Mark McClafferty and Luca Pietro as the alphas respectively.
Again, every single person in the lengthy yet eclectic cast makes this short feel relevant and relatable and it works. “Verticals: The Movie” is worth checking out, and it garners two thumbs up. Well done.
