Anthony Glinski's debut short (and student film) Willy Will is clever in that it aims to cater to a discerning genre film crowd. In other words, you can either go with the flow, or let it frustrate you. Sporting a story that could only have stemmed from the nuttiest of 'minds' - Willy Will stars Michael Berkowitz as the title character. A 27-year old 'man' who still lives at home with his mother, sleeps with a teddy bear and wants to drink out of a sippy cup...until (of course) his demanding mother pours his juice into a glass for him. One day, he's visited by three visions from his mind; a clown, cowboy and zombie. He's told to grow up and be happy...or else. Perfect timing too, his mother gives him the boot and sends him off to rent a room in a building owned by his eccentric uncle. Things only get weirder from here, until the film reaches its brief, yet satisfying conclusion.

Unconventional characters abound in this entertaining short that's clever in just about every way a film of this length would necessitate. For starters, it doesn't look like a student film. Willy Will features solid performances, make up effects and music that work well in conjunction with its clever script. The whole affair is just long enough to entertain without ever overstaying its welcome. A rare feat in this day and age of Mini-Fellinis. For the most part, the fine mix of creepiness and comedy works quite well. Although (as is to be expected) some moments are a hit or miss affair. No matter, in the end this short film (it runs less than 30-minutes) is still more than entertaining enough.

The film looks and sounds sharp for such a low budget film, which runs just about 25-minutes. Also on the DVD are a feature length commentary, trailer and behind-the-scenes feature, which runs just over 30-minutes entitled Willy Will: It's Time to Grow Up. All in all, a nice little achievement in indie filmmaking that peaks my interest in what Glinski may have in store for us next.

Even if you have a passing interest in indie filmmaking, I urge you to check out www.umbilicalpictures.com and if you're so inclined, pick up a copy of Willy Will for only 8 bucks. Support indie filmmaking.