First Date Meltdown (2005) User Reviews

A fantastic short...

[kidd-geo · 9/10 · 9 April 2006]

I recently attended the Wisconsin Film Festival, and being a fan of short films decided to look a few up on IMDb, including "First Date Meltdown", which I saw at the fest.

Believe me when I say I've seen my share of "experimental" shorts and self-indulgent efforts, but First Date Meltdown comes across as 5 or 6 minutes of a longer big-budget comedy. Both of the main actors were great, and the directing and overall look was top notch. The music and closing song were also amazing. Based on the response of others at the fest, I'm not alone in my praise.

Personally, I would love to see this director, cast, and crew get funding to do a full-length feature. I would be first in line on opening day.

distinct, funny, and clever

[ddraper-2 · 10/10 · 7 April 2006]

I saw First Date Meltdown at the Wisconsin Film Fest in late March 2006 along with a collection of other shorts. This film clearly hit a most responsive chord with the audience and was a favorite of the house during the evening. The clever writing intertwined with the memorable acting to produce a film that was both very funny and entertaining. I was most impressed with the detail of the film, ranging from the interesting setting to the detailed use of significant props. Clearly, much time and effort was spent in producing the film. Mr. Bartell has an eye for capturing beats and moments on film and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it. I laughed, I reflected, and I wanted to see another title by him. Catch it when it appears at your local film fest.

The comedy of drama

[jesselee · 10/10 · 18 April 2006]

I had the pleasure of seeing "First Date Meltdown" last month at the Wisconsin Film Festival, and was truly impressed. As was the rest of the audience. (Judging by laughter and applause, anyway) This film succinctly moves plot and builds character, then peppers the audience with alternating bursts of comedy and drama straight to the end of its six minute run.

And THEN… it brings down the house with its closing song… "My love for you is slushy." This song, which I assume is an original, is straight up hilarious. I wish I could give it to my ex.

"First Date Meltdown" is what a film should be. That is, a tight script coupled with a talented director, meshed with gifted performances and then garnished with a fitting score. It is a memorable work of art greater than anything any one of those involved could have created alone.

I took in quite a few short films that night, but this is the only one I remember with any degree of clarity. But does it have a clear theme? Oh yeah, when the man says… "I hate you… I want to spend the rest of my life with you." There it is… in one line. And then the credits roll with "My love for you is slushy," sung in a crackling, off key voice. Classic.

I'd happily give up seven dollars and a Saturday night to catch this as a feature.

Charming, well written and laugh-out-loud funny

[milklemon · 10/10 · 7 April 2006]

"First Date" grabs you from the opening credits and leaves you wanting more, thanks to a deft hand by director and writer Tim Bartell.

The story is well conceived: The tension inherent in a first-date situation is palpable – and who among us can't relate? Which makes us instantly empathize with the apparently mismatched couple.

Throw in a really smart script – sweet, and funny without being overtly jokey – and excellent performances by the two leads (Tracey Rooney's performance of some very subtle material is truly sublime) and First Date Meltdown is a great movie to take a date to.

PS: I'm quite sure this is the first movie I've ever seen where the closing song got its own applause!

Excellent material, fast-paced

[Pinkywinters · 10/10 · 15 November 2005]

I found First Date Meltdown to be an excellent production. The story was very unique, and the main actors took it to the highest level. Direction was tight and not a lost moment...everything "hung together." It may have been one of the most interesting short films I have seen in a long time. I viewed it with a crowd at the Short Films festival at Arclight theater in Hollywood. Those in the audience must have felt the same way as they were totally enthusiastic and cheering the protagonists on at every turn! In contrast to some of the other films in this group, it seemed to be superior in every aspect. I feel success will follow this foray into a type of subject that has not been addressed on film. The music in the film was unusual, and packed a welcome punch, putting the frosting on the cake!