Two murderers, one camera angle, and a dead body that isn’t quite dead. Written and directed by Sammy Anderson, Great Asphyxiations is a refreshingly funny and darkly comic film.
Adding another string to his bow, Anderson also takes the roll as a less than competent killer named Wally. Wally by name, wally by nature (for those not blessed with an intimate knowledge of British slang, wally can mean ‘a silly or inept person’ which I think is very fitting for the character). From the get go, we are immediately pulled into the world of Wally and Darren (Preston Geer).
The choice of camera angle and the fact the film appears to be one continuous shot is stylistic genius. It perfectly complements the off-beat comedy that is so thoroughly entertaining. We are dropped right in the action by the disorientating camera angle which makes the audience feel like they are the “dead” body. Both actors are superbly funny, managing to bring out two strong individual characters in a very short space of time.
In films such as this one, utmost importance is placed on the dialogue. Not only does it have to be well written, but also well delivered. In both his writing and delivery, Anderson excels! The simple but amusing plotline of ‘killer finds himself wanting a career change’ is elevated by the writing, which provides a strong foundation for the comedy. Of course, Anderson’s twitchy and erratic performance contrasted with Geer’s continual compose is also hilarious.
This is an example of filmmaking at its best: innovative, funny and engaging.