King of Herrings

King of Herrings is an award-winning, indie, black & white drama from 2013, directed by Eddie Jemison and Sean Richardson. The film stars Joe Chrest, Andrea Frankle, and Eddie Jemison in pivotal roles. Known for its innovative story-telling narrative, fascinating characters, and captivating setting, King of Herrings stands out as an authentic example of a neo-noir drama that peels off conventional trappings of the genre.

The film is set in the sultry city of New Orleans, impeccably capturing the moody, grimy underbelly of the city, miles away from the touristy French Quarter and the glamour of the Mardi Gras. The viewer is introduced to a bleak, less glamorous environment steeped in friction, frustration, and the struggles of daily life.

At the center of King of Herrings is Ditch (played by Eddie Jemison), a low-profile antagonist struggling with ennui. He is surrounded by a coterie of friends, each grappling with their personal demons while trying to make sense of their solemn existences. There's Leighton (played by David Jensen), a feeble-minded womanizer, and Orville (Joe Chrest), an easy-going yet somewhat neglectful husband. Next is Leon (Wayne Pére), an eccentric hustler, who’s often the butt of everyone's jokes, and finally Mary (Andrea Frankle), Orville's wife who stands out as the only female character in the pack, portraying strength and resilience.

King of Herrings draws an unfaltering narrative through the complex dynamics of these characters and their sideways glances at dreams they can't fully articulate, let alone reach. The result is a fascinating study of human nature, relationships, ennui and desires set against the backdrop of a gritty city. Powerful performances by the cast, especially Joe Chrest and Eddie Jemison, drive the narrative forward while the rich, detailed dialogues keep the viewer engrossed in the unfolding events.

In terms of direction by Eddie Jemison and Sean Richardson, King of Herrings moves seamlessly through the noir undertones, building suspense and tension organically, and never once veering towards cliched story-telling. The tonality of the film is further accentuated by the black and white color palette, lending an antiquated yet gritty look to the celluloid. This aesthetic choice gives the film its unique sensibility, borrowing a bit from the French New Wave of cinema, creating a dreamlike haze that lingers in the viewer's imagination.

The film also stands out for its distinct background score that resonates with the characters' inherent discord. The deep, earthy tones add layers to the visuals and help build an atmosphere of despair, translating and amplifying the characters’ internal conflicts. Combined with the sounds of the city, which seep into scenes subtly, the film captures New Orleans in all its overbearing humidity and cultural richness.

Though King of Herrings dwells in the realm of disenchantment, it does so without falling into melodrama. The film maintains the right amount of melancholy and cynicism but with an undercurrent of humor. The bickering and banter between the characters, their faltering friendships, ungratifying love lives, and thwarted desires are blended wonderfully with warmth and funny one-liners, shifting the narrative tone from bleak to comically absurd. It's in these everyday moments that the film distinctly reminds of interesting character studies from 70s indie cinema.

King of Herrings is a fascinating journey down the line of the mundane desires, failed aspirations, hidden angst, and quiet realizations of a group of ordinary individuals. The film's genius lies in its ability to be both, a gritty portrayal of a struggling class as well as a moving exploration of friendship, love, and life. It's a powerful commentary on the human condition that may be tough to digest but leaves you contemplating long after the credits roll.

Designed for those who appreciate indie film craft, King of Herrings is a stirring exploration of the human condition. It stands out through its powerful dialogue-driven narrative, dark and moody cinematography, compelling performances, and a score that haunts you. The film is an intense, engrossing journey that leaves the viewer contemplating the intricacies of human relationships and the complexities of existence.