As My Neighbor Wants Me Dead progresses, almost nothing changes in terms of style or direction, making it difficult for viewers to bounce back and appreciate anything taking place. Much of what Gatsby does throughout the film feels childish and unnecessary. The film, as a whole, gives off a “look what I can do” vibe, as much of the script, editing, etc. appear to be things that anyone with a basic understanding of film can accomplish. I appreciate the fact that the film is incredibly low budget, but that does not excuse the fact that I feel like Gatsby is attempting to shove his “expertise” down the throats of those watching.
Much of the film makes me think of when a little kid does something they find to be incredible, and as a parent or guardian (or any adult for that matter), you have to pretend to appreciate the “wonderful” thing this child has just accomplished. With My Neighbor Wants Me Dead, however, I don’t have to humor this person, leaving Gatsby’s attempts flawed and unsuccessful. As a matter of fact, the idea that Gatsby attempts to show off makes it even more difficult for me to appreciate the film and his attempts to entertain.
“The immaturity of what Gatsby does…turns audiences off…”
Inner monologue is an important part of My Neighbor Wants Me Dead. Audiences see (not hear) the tenant regularly contemplating his existence, his current situation, and his next move. I cannot begin to fathom why Gatsby chooses to have audiences read what the tenant is thinking like subtitles rather than use actual audio. Identical to the inner monologue, the dialogue between the tenant and the neighbor appears on screen for audiences to read. The dialogue is, much like the rest of the film, childish. Phrases like “Imma stomp your ballz into mush” make it incredibly difficult for anyone to accept this film as a genuine attempt at cinema.
The immaturity of what Gatsby does throughout My Neighbor Wants Me Dead turns audiences off and never allows them the opportunity to be attracted to anything taking place. Gatsby makes it incredibly difficult for anyone to appreciate the effort he put into this film. My Neighbor Wants Me Dead falls flat on its face from the start and fails to regain its footing, leaving audiences bored and incredibly underwhelmed.
"…the film feels childish and unnecessary."
