DEEP DIVE: Todd Solondz's Trilogy of Anguished Comedies
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Happiness fans RISE UP.
We're going to explore a trilogy from one of the most underappreciated indie masters of American cinema, Todd Solondz. He's known for his socially conscious dark satires that are uncomfortably funny and sometimes go supremely dark. If you've seen Happiness, you already are familiar with his flavor of satire. I'd argue that they're also supremely empathetic towards his characters because he understands the deep sense of alienation that exists in the heart of American society. Let's dive in!
Note: these are loose sequels!
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Films:
Welcome to the Dollhouse (1995)
Synopsis: An awkward seventh-grader struggles to cope with inattentive parents, snobbish class-mates, a smart older brother, an attractive younger sister and her own insecurities in suburban New Jersey.
Stream: TUBI (FREE)
Palindromes (2004)
Synopsis: Aviva is thirteen, awkward and sensitive. Her mother Joyce is warm and loving, as is her father, Steve, a regular guy who does have a fierce temper from time to time. The film revolves around her family, friends and neighbors.
Stream: YOUTUBE (FREE)
Weiner Dog (2016)
Synopsis: A dachshund passes from oddball owner to oddball owner, whose radically dysfunctional lives are all impacted by the pooch.
Stream: PlutoTV and Hoopla (FREE)
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Please watch all the films! If you can only catch 2 or so, you're still welcome to join the discussion. See you then!
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Resources:
Todd Solondz's profile on They Shoot Pictures Don't They
Todd Solondz on Welcome to the Doll House
Todd Solondz interview on Palindromes
Todd Solondz on Weiner-Dog at the Munich Film Festival (very indie)