Indie Film Pick: Must See “C.O.G.”

A coming-of-age tale is not easy to pull off without the right leading actors and an understanding for the generation it represents and speaks to.  It is a bigger task when the story is autobiographical, and its famous author famously reluctant about his written words being mismanaged or cheapened on its way to the big screen. David Sedaris is the celebrated American author and humorist of self-deprecating essays, seen as collections, in books such as Naked (1997) and Me Talk Pretty One Day (2000). He is the darling of a generation, if not beyond, and arguably a national treasure. Considering silly Hollywood adaptations of decent books, Sedaris has the right to be guarded about his work, until now.

Enter writer-director Kyle Patrick Alvarez whose 2009 directorial debut “Easier with Practice” quickly became the favorite of film critics and nominated for two Spirit awards, while drawing a memorable performance from its leading man, Brian Geraghty (“The Hurt Locker”).  If an indie, heartfelt approach was the original route to realize this first film adaptation, then Alvarez, his actors and the production are quite worthy of visually bottling the dry wit and the sarcasm of Sedaris into a new indie film named “C.O.G.”

Based on an essay (from Naked) by Sedaris, the film depicts the hardworking, bible-belt Americans (in rural Oregon), as seemingly loving, yet ignorant, Jesus-crazy bunch who do not have the ability nor the desire to look past their limited views.

Associating with such minds, Samuel, a Yale graduate, finds himself trapped as well, in this societal prison he voluntarily places himself in, while searching for “something different,” in his new home, an apple orchard in rural Oregon, away from the comfier life he left behind, in Connecticut.

Actor Jonathan Groff mesmerizes as (David, aka: Samuel). He is the perfect vessel to deliver the sarcasm of David Sedaris with the smart-Alec snap, and youthfulness of such pseudo-intellectual-ish types. Groff balances innocence, smarts and charm with laser-sharp skills and bonds with the viewer effortlessly.  This is the same actor who originated (and owned) the lead role of the Broadway hit musical “Spring Awakening,” and quickly gained more attention for his TV roles in Starz network’s “Boss” and Fox’s “Glee.” You will also recognize him as the hilariously chilled man-on-horse character, Michael, in Ang Lee’s “Taking Woodstock” (2009).

Denis O’Hare (as Jon) gives a robust performance, as a turbulent evangelical artist whose father-figure mentorship over Samuel hits a wall of irreparable conflict.

Corey Stoll, as Curly, the attractive yet shady factory co-worker, delivers a confidently cool portrayal, but one that seems to take an under-the-radar approach that keeps the character appealing, current, and not immediately alarming. As a result the viewer warms up to Curly in the same manner Samuel does.

“C.O.G.” is a very poignant, touching film with a cast of highly capable actors. In fact, it should be necessary viewing for parents of gay children who may or may not be familiar with how the world treats their offspring – as a look into a cautionary tale or serving as a guide to how their sons and daughters must feel inside.

“C.O.G.” is a cinematic treat because it is beautifully shot and framed for the big screen, another reason to rush and see it.

It will be a mistake to repeatedly compare this film with the written work of Sedaris, as the film needs its own place to breathe and to have an impact on its own terms.

At Brave New Hollywood, we highly recommend this film and encourage you to see it, and support indie filmmakers and independent American cinema.

CLICK HERE for the official “C.O.G.” page, showtimes and VOD viewing options.