Michael Cera Makes His Directorial Debut On YouTube
Actor Michael Cera made his directorial debut on YouTube today with 'Brazzaville Teen-Ager,' starring Cera himself, the legendary Charles Grodin, and... female R&B star Kelis?
Based on the 1960 short story by classic comedy writer Bruce Jay Friedman ('The Heartbreak Kid,' 'Splash'), Michael Cera's directorial debut 'Brazzaville Teen-Ager' follows a son on his awkward (of course, it's Michael Cera) and desperate adventure to connect with his ailing father (the amazing Charles Grodin) by getting his curmudgeon boss and singer Kelis to perform a song for the old man. It's the perfect directorial debut for Cera, who's made a name for himself playing gawky, off-kilter characters, and he's definitely playing one of those here.
The story is quirky, obviously, but we've gotta say -- Cera the director is pretty solid. There's no fancy editing here, just long, lingering shots that feel a little uncomfortable and are in keeping with Cera's character. Some of the pacing in the line delivery seems a bit stilted, but otherwise it's a delightful short film and a promising directorial debut from Cera.
Cera premiered the short film on the YouTube channel JASH, a comedy collective channel that also features work from Sarah Silverman, Eric Wareheim and Tim Heidecker of comedy duo Tim and Eric, and Reggie Watts.
You can watch the full short film below. 'Brazzaville Teen-Ager' also stars Jack O'Connell from 'Skins' and R&B star Kelis.