Peluca (2003)

Director:

Jared Hess

Writer:

Jared Hess (writer)

Genre:

Comedy | Short

Plot:

A day in the life of Seth, super nerd extraordinaire; rocking the megalopolis of Preston, Idaho, and soon the world, with his illegal ninja moves and his sweet fanny pack. GOSH!! |

Plot Keywords:

Nerd | Cafeteria | Fall Down | School Bus | Best Friend

Cast

Jon Heder	...	Seth
Greg Hansen	...	Pedro
Chris Sanchez	...	Giel
Bracken Johnson	...	Randy
Zack Thomas	...	Vern
Chris Thomas	...	Other Boy On Bus
Leo Shackleford	...	Cashier (as Leonard Shackleford)
Sarah Barton	...	Girl

Runtime:

USA:9 min

Country:

USA

Language:

English | Spanish

Color:

Black and White

Aspect Ratio:

1.37 : 1

Filming Locations:

Preston, Idaho, USA

Trivia:

On a budget of approximately $500, this movie was shot in two days on grainy black and white 16mm film in Preston, Idaho using primarily local talent (except for Jon Heder).

Movie Connections:

Referenced in "Dinner for Five: (#4.9)" (2005)

Word-up to all Aspiring Actors and Directors:

I gave this short film a 10 for a very specific reason: This film became a springboard for both the Writer/Director and the Lead Actor. The fact that this film cost 2 days and $500 makes it quite fantastic that the careers of at least two young men have been assured.

As many already know, this is the short which Jered Hess and Jon Heder made in Preston, Idaho...detailing what amounts to a day-in-the-life of a smalltown nerd. Heder's character development of what would become Napoleon Dynamite (Seth, in this film) is obviously undercooked, but the ingredients are all there, and it tastes just as sweet. Think "Cookie Dough".

In the Director's Commentary, Hess admits to messing up the exposure which shows itself in most of the outdoor shots, and while it's a little distracting, overall it almost lends a kind of "low-rent" charm which you quickly get used to.

9 minutes of quirky angst, and you can't help but grin throughout. Film "quality" issues aside, and keeping in mind this is basically a "student film" in regards to writing and character dev, and it's really just very cool that the small amount of effort which was undertaken could blossom into a Feature Film deal and an underground hit.

Word-up to all aspiring actors and directors: All you need is 2 days, $500 bux, a quirky idea, some basic film skills, some ninja skills, an interesting character, and a belief in yourself and you too can give up your day job and move to Los Angeles for an exciting career in the Movies!

...which beats a decroded piece of crap anyday!