The Wizard of Speed and Time (1988)

A story about Hollywood, a man with a dream, special effects, and UNIONS.

Listen in as me and new guest, Brian, travel to Tinseltown of yesteryear with this silly, impressive, and utterly fun ode/jibe at the movie business.

Written and directed by Mike Jittlov (The Wizard of Speed and Time), Time Out called the film a "bizarre and wacky conglomeration of [special effects] and fantasy slapstick," and 366 Weird Movies said "there is something genuinely charming here." I have to be honest, when Brian suggested this film I thought it was going to be wretched. I have to say that I found it to be utterly delightful. Of course, my own struggles as a filmmaker certainly play a part in how I see this film. Perhaps it might be a bit more boring and annoying to non-industry people, but listen in and see what we have to say about the experience.

It tells the story of filmmaker & special effects artist Mike Jittlov (played by himself) as he struggles to get his career going. He gets a chance to produce a segment for a TV program highlighting special effects. The thing he doesn't know is that the two producers have a bet going as to whether or not he'll be able to deliver the product on time. As Mike and his friends work to make their dreams come true, they find themselves beset on all sides by impossible union rules, overly zealous law enforcement, and the tax man. This movie is zany and definitely worth a watch.

The film is currently available on YouTube. Yes, you read that correct. YouTube. For FREE.