Bob Byington’s latest film, “Lousy Carter,” challenges the traditional notion of a tragic death in a darkly comedic and repellently watchable way. The story follows Carter, a self-absorbed literature professor played by David Krumholtz, who receives a terminal diagnosis with only six months to live. However, no one seems to care about his impending demise, including his family, students, and lovers.
The film takes a sharp turn from the typical tear-jerking narrative of facing mortality, instead opting for a cruel and humorously dark tone. Carter spends his final days in a mundane and detached manner, scrolling through his phone during cold conversations with his ex-wife, mistress, and supposed best friend. Even his therapist, played by Stephen Root, remains unmoved by Carter’s revelations about his troubled past.
With its hammering misanthropy, herky-jerky editing, and crummy sound mix, “Lousy Carter” keeps viewers delightfully off-balance. The film seems to challenge audiences to navigate through a narcissist’s mind, while also yearning to be a graphic novel to fully capture the malaise and missed visual gags.
One standout character, Gail, played by Luxy Banner, represents a refreshing take on Carter’s male ennui, showing zero respect for his pretentious pontifications on literature. The film ultimately echoes Gail’s sentiment, bored with taking Carter’s self-absorbed musings seriously.
“Lousy Carter” is a unique and exasperating film that defies expectations and offers a twisted take on mortality and human relationships. It is currently in theaters and available to rent or buy on major platforms, inviting audiences to experience its darkly comedic and repellently watchable world.
