Indie Movies: Appetite (2020) by Katrin Larissa Kasper & Xuemeng Li: A Witty Tale of Culinary Escapades

Movie Summary: The Art of the Dine-and-Dash

"Appetite (2020)," a short comedy directed by Katrin Larissa Kasper and Xuemeng Li, tells the witty and increasingly daring story of Steph, a "predatory dater" and "serial dine-and-dasher." Inspired by a true story, the film follows Steph as she artfully out-orders and overawes her dates, only to disappear before the bill arrives. Using elaborate guises and personas, Steph believes she can evade consequences, but the film explores the idea that "everyone has to pay the bill in the end." It's a humorous yet insightful look at deception and consequence, driven by a quirky and often hilarious protagonist.

Link to watch: https://klipist.com/watch/appetite/

Detailed Summary: Steph's Elaborate Scheme and the Price of Deception

"Appetite (2020)" is a 14-minute comedy short film co-directed by Katrin Larissa Kasper (who also stars as Steph and produced) and Xuemeng Li, with a script by Sam Oates.

• The film introduces Steph, a character described as a "predatory dater" who leverages her charm to enjoy extravagant meals on dates. Her modus operandi involves overawing, out-ordering, and out-eating her unsuspecting companions.

• The central premise revolves around Steph's unique habit: she insists on paying for the meal, but when the bill arrives, she is nowhere to be seen. She is, in essence, a "serial dine-and-dasher."

• To execute her schemes, Steph employs different guises and personas, making each dating escapade a performance of deception. The film suggests that her actions become progressively "weirder and more daring" as the story unfolds.

• Inspired by a true story (a "serial dine-and-dasher" found guilty in the US in 2018), "Appetite" explores the comedic potential of this unusual criminal behavior.

• While presented as a comedy, there's an underlying theme that "everyone has to pay the bill in the end," hinting at the eventual consequences of Steph's actions.

• The directors navigated challenges like shooting in various restaurants on a small budget and dealing with unpredictable London weather, which incidentally added to the "madness" and humor of some scenes.

Plot Summary: The Elusive Diner

The plot of "Appetite" centers entirely on Steph's escalating pattern of "dine-and-dash" dating.

• Introduction to Steph: The film introduces Steph as a charming and confident individual who engages in numerous first dates.

• The Routine: On each date, she orders lavishly, impresses her dates, and makes a show of offering to pay.

• The Escape: When the opportune moment arises or the bill arrives, Steph subtly (or not so subtly) makes her escape, leaving her date to foot the large bill.

• Elaborate Guises: As the film progresses, Steph's disguises and methods for avoiding payment become more intricate and daring.

• Consequence (Implied): While specific immediate consequences are part of the comedic escalation, the film's underlying message suggests an eventual reckoning for her actions, reinforcing the idea that such behavior cannot continue indefinitely.

Director's Vision: Complementary Styles and Comedic Exploration

The directorial vision for "Appetite" by Katrin Larissa Kasper and Xuemeng Li is a testament to effective co-direction and a shared commitment to a unique comedic tone.

• Collaborative Approach: As first-time filmmakers co-directing, they found their styles to be complementary. Katrin Larissa Kasper, also the lead actress, focused on the practicalities of shooting and script progression, while Xuemeng Li brought a fresh perspective and deeper consideration for actor performances.

• Tonal Balance: Katrin aimed for a "Wes Anderson tone," embracing a less naturalistic, more stylized aesthetic, while Xuemeng preferred a "more natural" approach to the actors. This interplay likely resulted in the film's distinct blend of witty artificiality and relatable character moments.

• "Budget Filmmaking" Enthusiasm: Despite a small budget, both directors, along with their crew, approached the project with enthusiasm and ingenuity, overcoming obstacles like securing locations and shooting in challenging weather.

• Comedy from Real Life: Their vision stemmed from a real-life incident (the "serial dine-and-dasher"), transforming a curious news story into a comedic narrative that explores human behavior and its absurdities.

• Exploration of Deception: The film aims to delve into the psychology of a character who manipulates social situations for personal gain, with a comedic lens.

Themes: Deception, Consequences, Gender Roles, and Consumerism

"Appetite (2020)" explores several key themes through its comedic premise:

• Deception and Manipulation: Central to the plot, as Steph consistently deceives her dates to avoid paying.

• Consequences and Accountability: The underlying message that "everyone has to pay the bill in the end" highlights the eventual repercussions of one's actions.

• Gender Roles and Expectations: Steph's character subverts traditional dating dynamics, particularly around who pays the bill, adding a layer of social commentary.

• Consumerism and Indulgence: The focus on lavish meals and Steph's desire to "out-order" her dates touches upon themes of excess and gratification without responsibility.

• Persona and Identity: Steph's use of "different guises and personas" raises questions about authenticity and the roles people play in social interactions.

• The Absurdity of Human Behavior: The film finds humor in an unusual, real-life inspired scenario, showcasing the strange lengths people go to for personal gain.

Key Success Factors: Witty Premise and Strong Performances

The success of "Appetite" can be attributed to several factors:

• Original and Witty Premise: The "serial dine-and-dasher" concept, inspired by a true story, provides a fresh and humorous foundation.

• Effective Co-Direction: The complementary styles of Katrin Larissa Kasper and Xuemeng Li created a unique and balanced comedic tone.

• Strong Lead Performance: Katrin Larissa Kasper's portrayal of Steph, combining charm with cunning, is crucial to the film's appeal.

• Concise Storytelling: As a short film, it efficiently delivers its comedic narrative and thematic ideas within its runtime.

• High Production Value for a Short: Despite budget constraints, the film manages to convey a polished look and feel, enhancing the comedic and narrative elements.

• Festival Recognition: Its nominations and awards at film festivals indicate its quality and appeal within the independent film circuit.

Awards and Nominations: Festival Acclaim

"Appetite (2020)" has received recognition on the film festival circuit:

• MosFestFilm Film Festival 2020:

  • Winner: Best Narrative Short

• Los Angeles Lift-Off Film Festival 2020:

  • Nominated: Best First-Time Film

• Aesthetica Short Film Festival: Official Selection.

Critics Reception: Positive for its Humor and Originality

Critics and audiences who have seen "Appetite" on the festival circuit or platforms like Klipist generally respond positively to its witty nature, unique premise, and comedic execution.

• It is described as "witty," "hilarious," and "quirky" by viewers.

• The film's inspiration from a true story and its transformation into a comedy is often praised for its originality.

• Katrin Larissa Kasper's performance as Steph is noted for its engaging portrayal of a "predatory dater."

• While not widely reviewed by mainstream critics due to its short film format, its festival wins indicate strong positive reception within the independent film community.

Reviews: Entertaining and Smart Short Comedy

Reviews for "Appetite" highlight its entertainment value and clever approach to a quirky subject.

• Many appreciate its comedic timing and the escalating absurdity of Steph's dating escapades.

• The film is often cited for its smart script (by Sam Oates) and the way it balances humor with an underlying message about consequences.

• Viewers find the lead character, Steph, to be engaging and memorable, even in her dubious actions.

• The "Wes Anderson" tone mentioned by Katrin Larissa Kasper in interviews is often picked up by audiences, appreciating the film's distinct visual and narrative style.

Release Date on Streaming: Available on Select Platforms

"Appetite (2020)" is available for streaming on certain platforms, indicating its digital release after its festival run.

• It can be watched for free on Klipist.com.

• Its availability on platforms like Klipist and its showcasing by Kino Short Film indicate a focus on online distribution for short film enthusiasts.

Theatrical Release: Festival Screenings as Primary Venue

"Appetite (2020)" primarily achieved "theatrical" exposure through its screenings at various film festivals.

• It was an official selection at numerous festivals, including the Los Angeles Lift-Off Film Festival and the Aesthetica Short Film Festival.

• A wide commercial theatrical release was not part of its distribution strategy due to its short film format.

Why to Watch This Movie: A Clever, Quirky, and Highly Entertaining Short

"Appetite" is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys clever comedies and unique character studies:

• Original Premise: The "serial dine-and-dasher" concept is brilliantly executed and stands out from typical short film narratives.

• Sharp Comedy: It delivers consistent laughs through its witty dialogue, escalating situations, and Katrin Larissa Kasper's charismatic performance.

• Distinct Style: The film's unique tone, blending stylized comedy with an underlying sense of consequence, makes for a refreshing viewing experience.

• Concise and Engaging: At under 15 minutes, it's a perfect example of effective short-form storytelling that leaves a lasting impression.

• Award-Winning Quality: Its recognition at film festivals speaks to its artistic merit and entertainment value.

What Movie Trend Film is Following: Dark Comedy Shorts and True-Crime Inspired Narratives

"Appetite" aligns with several contemporary movie trends, particularly within the short film landscape:

• Dark Comedy Shorts: The film embraces humor in morally ambiguous or transgressive behavior, a growing trend in short-form content.

• True-Crime Inspired Narratives (Comedic Twist): Taking a real-life oddity (the "serial dine-and-dasher") and reinterpreting it through a comedic lens, showcasing the versatility of true-crime inspiration beyond serious drama.

• Female-Driven Stories: Featuring a complex and unconventional female protagonist who challenges traditional expectations.

• Stylized Indie Comedy: Employing a distinct visual and narrative style reminiscent of independent filmmakers who prioritize quirkiness and aesthetic flair.

• Online Festival/Platform Distribution: Leveraging digital platforms as key venues for discovery and audience engagement, a vital trend for short films.

What Big Social Trend is Following: Gig Economy Ethics and Subverting Gender Norms

"Appetite" indirectly engages with broader social trends, especially:

• Ethics in the Gig Economy/Dating Scene: It playfully touches on themes of transactional relationships and personal ethics within modern dating and consumption habits.

• Subversion of Gender Norms: Steph's character challenges traditional expectations of women in dating and financial responsibility, reflecting a social shift towards more assertive and unconventional female roles.

• Viral Anecdotes as Inspiration: The film's origin in a "curious story on the radio" reflects a social trend where everyday oddities and viral news stories inspire creative content.

• The Pursuit of Gratification: It subtly comments on a society that often prioritizes immediate pleasure and indulgence, sometimes at the expense of accountability.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Short for Its Originality and Humor

"Appetite (2020)" by Katrin Larissa Kasper and Xuemeng Li is a highly original and genuinely humorous short film that expertly turns a bizarre true story into a memorable cinematic experience. With its witty script, strong lead performance by Katrin Larissa Kasper, and distinctive co-direction, the film is a clever take on deception, desire, and the inevitable consequences of our actions. Its success on the festival circuit is well-deserved, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for an entertaining, quirky, and thought-provoking short comedy.