Kringle Time

Kringle Time is a dark, eccentric, and satisfyingly original film produced in 2021. It was directed by Matthew Lucas and stars Benny Elledge, Vernon Wells, and Gigi Edgley, who all give nuanced performances that brilliantly reinforce the movie's unconventional narrative.

Benny Elledge plays Jerry, the introverted manager of the local public access TV station in a small Midwestern town. Soft-spoken and mild-mannered, Jerry has never really seized the spotlight in his life, preferring instead to work behind the scenes. He has a profound respect for the children's show that lifts the spirit of the town, "Kringle Time", and its plebeian puppet, Kringles the Snowman, brought to life by the boisterous and controversy-prone actor, Al Bickle. Vernon Wells, an actor known for his commanding screen presence, embodies the extravagant Al Bickle to perfection, presenting a character that is both charming and intimidating.

On an unfortunate night, Jerry finds Bickle dead, which is an event that is as shocking as it is mysterious. Taking the chance that life has given him, Jerry steps into Bickle's shoes, becoming the new voice of the beloved town mascot, Kringles the Snowman. This is a turning point in Jerry's character's life and he tries navigating his new role, torn between maintaining the traditional persona of Kringle Time and revealing Bickle’s previously secret past.

Gigi Edgley, also commendable in the film, plays Marla, a scrappy local reporter with her own complex perspective on Bickle's life and death. Furthermore, Marla seeks the truth behind the man who fascinated but also terrified the local community. Her character adds another layer to the dynamic narrative and she brings the inquisitiveness and tenacity required of the role.

Unique in its plot, this films dovetails several genre elements, such as mystery, comedy, and drama, into a heartfelt exploration of fame, identity, creativity, and societal expectations. Director Mathew Lucas flawlessly unites these themes, coupling them with audacious creativity and distinctive American small-town cinematography that brings depth and character to the film. As much as Kringle Time is a haunting look into the tragic moments of a town’s local hero, it is also a celebration of the unsung hero stepping out of the shadows and finding his own voice.

Furthermore, while the film expertly navigates the themes of death and replacement, it also focuses on the construct of public imagery and the pressure to leave a good legacy. It explores the dichotomy of public personas versus private lives and the expectations that the interaction of the two bring.

Kringle Time succeeds tremendously through its gallant narrative, and thought-provoking themes. The irony and dark humor fluctuating throughout the film are executed subtly and with precision. Viewers who love unusual plot twists that tie into a significant societal critique will find themselves appreciating this diamond in the rough. The film also has solid dialogues that elevate the plot and helps in shaping up the unique characters created.

There is also an excellent play of symbolism throughout the film—the puppetry, Kringles the Snowman, the old television set—to mention a few. They not only enhance the visual aspect of the film but also deeply resonate with the core ethos of the narrative. The quirky yet appealing soundtrack further fuels the film's distinct ambiance.

Performances from the entire cast are top-notch, and involvement with their characters' conflict and personal journey quickly forms a bond with the viewers. Benny Elledge, present in almost every scene, holds the film together with his enigmatic presence and emotional depth. Vernon Wells, although with lesser screen-time, leaves a lasting impression, and Gigi Edgley, with her relentless dedication to journalistic integrity, complements the other characters well.

In entirety, Kringle Time uses an unconventional premise to drive forward a narrative grounded in compassion, identity, and the human capacity for transformation. Its introspective nature, coupled with the candid performances of the cast, make it a must-watch for fans of offbeat comedy-drama. While the film might seem bizarre and eerie on the surface, it shows us the cost of public adoration and the price one pays to maintain a perfect facade. Kringle Time is an eccentric, little big film that seriously needs a larger platform to be viewed and appreciated.