I am a big fan of both WELCOME TO THE DOLLHOUSE and HAPPINESS, and didn't even know this movie existed until it was shown recently on the "Romance Classics" cable channel, of all places. (The only "star" acknowledged in the channel listing was Stanley Tucci, who does have a small supporting role.) This film tries too hard to be a wacky look at love for a loser (played by Solondz), and I found its wackiness to be both forced and intrusive. While it does contain some of the elements that are used so much more effectively in his later two films, such as an unblinking look at the ugliness in life, and strange songs with lyrics penned by Solondz, this film is not in the same league as either. It doesn't help that intentionally or otherwise, Solondz comes off as a annoying version of Woody Allen. Recommended for Solondz (or Tucci) completists only.
Review of Fear Anxiety Depression
