Release Date: May 6th, 2008
Running Time: 107 minutes

The Film

When taking filmmaking classes in college I remember my professor showing us a film that embodied all the struggle and turmoil of independent filmmaking: Tom DiCillo’s Living in Oblivion. Starring Steve Buscemi, the film documents a train wreck of an independent film production, and is perhaps the best filmmaking satire out there. Delirious, an offbeat dramedy about a low-end paparazzi, is another hit by DiCillo, but will likely go horribly underappreciated.

Delirious was well received on the festival circuit but was ultimately buried with a poor theatrical campaign and dismal box office numbers. It stars Buscemi as Les Galantine, a shoddy paparazzi in New York grinding through his life, always hoping for that one money shot. One day while waiting to snap a picture of pop sensation K-Harma Leeds (Alison Lohman), he bumps into a young homeless man named Toby (Michael Pitt). Toby follows Les around until he agrees to let him stay in his apartment. They actually hit it off and Les hires Toby (unpaid) to be his assistant. Finding a spark of happiness with his new protégé, Les begins to give out all his knowledge on the industry and celebrity lifestyle.

In a bit of dumb luck Toby finds himself accompanying K’Harma for a night, ditching Les and creating a rift in their world. As Toby and K’Harma grow closer, Les continually finds himself on the outside and retracts back into his negative, piss-ant shell. Toby eventually lands a role on a reality series, gaining fame and fortune that further fuels Les’ jealously, leading him to concoct a scheme to take down his former apprentice.

Delirious is a very strong piece of filmmaking. DiCillo is an excellent writer, capable of Tarantino-esque dialogue as well as bits of real, heartfelt drama and emotion. The balance of satire, comedy, and drama creates a unique and enjoyable experience that anyone involved in the entertainment industry is sure to find hilariously poignant.

The DVD

The video is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. It is a clean transfer with accurate colors and a solid level of detail. Since DVD is at the end of its run as the dominant format, you’d expect nothing less at this point.

The audio is offered in English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. The dialogue-heavy mix doesn’t feature many explosive effects or panning, but for the most part it is balanced and crisp. Dialogue never gets muffled under the music and the front channel separation keeps the experience from getting too flat.

The Extras

Commentary is offered by director Tom DiCillo. DiCillo is a very knowledgeable independent filmmaker and knows what points of instruction to hit in the commentary for aspiring filmmakers.

“Stalking Delirious” is a 13-minute discussion between DiCillo and Buscemi about the film as they stroll through the streets of New York.

Three short promotional pieces made to publicize the film on the website are offered as well: “Delirious Marketing Meeting,” “Steve Buscemi Pissed!,” and “Gina Gershon Sex Tape.”

Lastly the Trailer is offered as well as the Music Video for the song “Shove It” by K’Harma Leeds.

Final Thoughts

DiCillo is a quintessential independent filmmaker whose work deserves far more recognition that it earns. Delirious is a must-watch for anyone who loves industry parodies.