Simple Town Embraces Horror for Meta Comedy Film Debut

The New York-based sketch comedy group Simple Town has ventured into filmmaking with their debut project, a meta horror-comedy titled ‘Big Break.’ The group chose the horror genre as a practical entry point into filmmaking, aiming to blend humor with suspense. Sam Lanier, the film's writer and a cast member, stated that the group's primary goal was to create a funny movie, leveraging the horror genre to achieve this while also exploring themes relevant to their own experiences.

‘Big Break’ centers on a fictional sketch group that mirrors Simple Town’s real-life aspirations and challenges in the entertainment industry. The narrative follows the characters as they navigate the pursuit of fame, encountering a killer who targets aspiring comedians. This meta-narrative allows the film to comment on the anxieties and absurdities of the creative process and the often-brutal nature of show business. The film’s premise directly reflects the group’s own journey and the inherent risks involved in pursuing a career in comedy.

Simple Town, known for their online sketches and live performances, brings their established comedic voice to the film. The decision to incorporate horror elements was strategic, aiming to create a unique cinematic experience that distinguishes them from other comedy acts. The film’s meta-commentary is designed to resonate with audiences familiar with the struggles of artists and performers, offering a darkly humorous perspective on ambition and survival within the entertainment world. The group’s background in sketch comedy informs the film’s pacing and comedic timing, even within the horror framework.