Imagine taking the films "Rear Window", "Kentucky Fried Movie", and "Kung Fu Hustle", putting them in a blender, spinning, and seeing what type of frothy concoction emerges. Then, and only then, can you begin to conceive what "Severed Will of the Seppuku Warrior" is all about. A psychological study/comedy/action flick about a simple man attempting to overcome his inner demons. Had the inordinate pleasure of playing the wheelchair-bound martial arts expert Master Steve in this project. Amazing to me how a movie like this can come together so seamlessly on such short notice (it was written, filmed, and post-produced over the course of a single weekend June 9-11 2006 as part of the 48 Hour Film Project). Hats off to Rob Severson for his focused and sure-handed direction. Kudos as well to Aaron Crozier for his extraordinary writing and editing skills. Andrew Thiermann as apprentice Louis was a consummate professional. Matthew Sinopole proved a worthy adversary, and along with Jason Meyers provided superior voice work. Exemplary production design by Suzanne Stockhausen (particularly enjoyed the humanoid Deathshake costume). Yeomanlike work by Ron Warner manning that getup, especially in light of the fact that he couldn't see a thing once it was donned. Courtney Kennedy's art direction and acting turn as designated character Linda Garren were spot on. The evocative musical score by Justin DiCenzo, who lived in Japan for two years, was a key element. Did I mention that Jonathan Waters makes a killer milkshake? Speaking of milkshakes, nothing quite like the smell of curdled milkshake permeating your scalp in the sweltering St. Louis sun.
But I digress. In closing, these people are GOOD. Fun to hang with to boot. I'd gladly work with them anytime!
Kevin Stroup