The 4th

The 4th is a highly engaging independent comedy film from 2016 that showcases an ordinary man's conflict with the universe on arguably the grandest day in America, the 4th of July. The film is unique in that it provides an offbeat, hilarious view into the otherwise conventional and straightforward American celebration, offering viewers an entertaining ride throughout.

The film is written, directed, and performed by Andre Hyland, and he amply demonstrates his broad spectrum of talents with this unconventional independent comedy. He undertakes the role of Jamie, a seemingly average yet uniquely ill-fated Los Angeles resident whose simple plans for an Independence Day barbecue spiral dramatically out of control.

Coming in at just over eighty minutes, the film presents a day-in-the-life narrative involving the protagonist Jamie. His every action, no matter how benign, appears destined to only build upon the previous mishap, which strongly feeds into the movie's central theme of resonating tragedy in the most ordinary and uneventful of lives. The recurrent theme of struggle is brought to life with sharp wit, precise comedic timing, and the kind of expertly-plotted physical comedy you'd see in classic slap-stick comedies.

Andre Hyland's character Jamie is down on his luck but not down on life; he's optimistic, chill and seems to accept the world and its absurdities as they are. His performance combines subtlety with the surreal, and the character’s sanguine acceptance of his invariably doomed efforts to enjoy a perfect American Independence Day gives the movie its heart and soul.

The secondary characters in the film follow a similar vein of troubled individuals. Anna Lee Lawson's character, the lead character’s roommate’s girlfriend, fits perfectly into the chaotic microcosm of the narrative. She complements Hyland's character by creating obstacles with her lackadaisical nature that unintentionally fuels the tragicomic fire. Yasmine Kittles' character is introduced partway through the film and offers another intriguing dynamic to Jamie's problematic adventures.

Hyland's signature humor shines through in his directorial debut. His comedic approach is not one of brash, in-your-face jokes, but rather, it derives its punchlines from the audience’s observation of events transpiring around the eternally clueless protagonist. Hyland's perfection of this comedic interactive engagement is at the core of the film's success.

The cinematography of Shane Bruce Johnston also deserves a special mention, striking a balance between the stark grimness of Los Angeles and the colored atmosphere of the Fourth of July, capturing the spirit of vibrant American streets filled with eccentric characters and unexpected situations.

The 4th is more than just a comedy. It artfully mixes aspects of tragicomedy with traditional humor styles, keeping the audience invested in the storyline's progression and the characters' development. The film's pacing is impeccable, with one predicament seamlessly leading into the next to keep the momentum going.

At its core, it is a whimsical journey through the flawed paradox of the American Dream, showing a protagonist whose simple aspirations are ultimately his greatest downfall. Through its innovative approach, the film presents the message that life is unpredictable, and sometimes, your biggest obstacles are the most ordinary things, like a simple holiday celebration gone awry.

In conclusion, 'The 4th' is a fresh take on the comedy genre. Andre Hyland has brilliantly crafted a film that harmoniously blends slapstick, tragicomedy, and observational humor while still maintaining a sharp, critical look at everyday American life. With impressive performances from the entire cast, especially Hyland himself, Anna Lee Lawson, and Yasmine Kittles, 'The 4th' showcases the hilarity and irony that can be found in the most commonplace and ordinary scenarios. This film is a delightful roller-coaster ride for lovers of indie comedy and a must-watch for fans of unconventional narrations.