Fest Track On Sirk TV Film Review: CRUMB CATCHER [Fantastic Fest 2023 - Austin, Texas]

The idea of expectation versus opportunity comes in many different forms. It sometimes results in forward actions that benefit everyone involved. But in a horror context, it usually means a lesson to be learned, even if those who are being targeted aren't redeeemed. "Crumb Catcher" follows a new couple trying to make their way forward in the world. The irony of it depends on what each is getting out of the other. Shane and Leah have a story to tell but it is mostly his, specifically detailing his life (including that of his father who is apparently of the shady kind). Shane is trying to make his way forward but it is clear that there is an impasse. Leah is an alpha but it is hard to tell what her true motivations are. Does she see him as a bad boy? Is her her meal ticket? Is she really in love (even moderately). These are all adequate positions. The idea of fronting of course is an interesting concept here and one that enters the space in a different way when John, a waiter, approaches them both post wedding and then with a proposal which seems rather coincidental.

There is also a specific amount of lost time, which in any scenario isn't going to turn out well for the one targeted, guilty or not. The rub is simply how much will the players put up with. A similar scenario was played with in the movie "Barbarians" with different but more concrete motivations. John (John Speredakos) here (as the would be waiter) plays on a malfunction which is hard to register, less schitzophrenic and maniacal and more desperation and game playing (though his reactions seem a little too impulsive and bipolar). Shane (Rigo Garay) and his reactions make more sense but the reasoning of how it plays out seems a little too happenstance. The pickle (per se) that got them into the situation -- a lady named Rose --seems less than believable. That said, when the quid pro quo rachets up closer to the end, the possibilities seem to have potential though it ends in a more somber way....with the players as victims of circumstance because they never are quite sure where their true destiny lies, either as great storytellers or fodder at the bottom of a pit. B-

By Tim Wassberg