By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 3.5 cats
Director: Giselle Bonilla
Starring: Billian Jacobs | Lili Alice | Nevada Jose | Rob Lowe | Will Brill
Year: 2026
Running time: 87
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt37775809/
Michael says: “Giselle Bonella’s feature film debut, THE MUSICAL, is a bold, audacious swing into the blackest satire. When middle school drama teacher, Doug, finds out that his fellow teacher, Abigail, with whom had had been dating the previous year, has now taken up with the officious, self-satisfied Principal, his conflicting emotions churn into a cauldron of spite which takes a form of revenge using the annual musical to operatic and twisted heights.
“It all mostly works, and it is a fun, well-acted film. Lead actor Will Brill, best known for being part of the original cast of “Stereophonic” on Broadway, is fantastic, wavering between a need to reconnect with her ex, and the need to punish her. His work with the students is really great. Rob Lowe as the principal is some inspired casting, his smarmy good looks and single-minded desire to win the blue ribbon award make for some fun moments. 3 1/2 cats
“Screened on June 12, at the Art House
Provincetown International Film Festival”