This early effort by Scorsese demonstrates a real flair with cinematic technique, as well as a cheerfully dry sense of humour.
It seems to be about writer's block, quite possibly a mini-homage to Fellini's 8&1/2, but what I found most striking was its warped sense of humour, more British than American.
Shot in black & white, the short is about a would-be writer called Algernon (aka Harry), who becomes obsessed with a picture on his wall. He can't eat, sleep, or write, then throws a party, where he finds the cure for his troubles.
That doesn't really sum it up, as I think this film was more about Scorsese having some fun putting a film together, although there's no doubt a fair bit of personal reflection in there.
For some reason, short films aren't as enjoyable & well-made as this anymore, now that everyone does it.
Well worth a look.
It seems to be about writer's block, quite possibly a mini-homage to Fellini's 8&1/2, but what I found most striking was its warped sense of humour, more British than American.
Shot in black & white, the short is about a would-be writer called Algernon (aka Harry), who becomes obsessed with a picture on his wall. He can't eat, sleep, or write, then throws a party, where he finds the cure for his troubles.
That doesn't really sum it up, as I think this film was more about Scorsese having some fun putting a film together, although there's no doubt a fair bit of personal reflection in there.
For some reason, short films aren't as enjoyable & well-made as this anymore, now that everyone does it.
Well worth a look.