The Deeply Unnerving 1994 Indie ‘What Happened Was’ Reminds You Dating Has Always Been Hell
'What Happened Was' is a 1994 indie film written, directed by, and starring Tom Noonan that explores the psychological tension of a first date between two co-workers. The movie, recently adapted for the stage, unfolds as a dark, intimate character study filled with emotional vulnerability and unsettling revelations. Celebrated for its eerie atmosphere and strong performances, it has gained a cult following among fans of psychological dramas.
- ▪'What Happened Was' is a 1994 independent film that won the Sundance Grand Jury Prize.
- ▪The film stars Tom Noonan and Karen Sillas as two co-workers on a deeply awkward and emotionally charged first date.
- ▪Jackie, played by Sillas, delivers a disturbing monologue about a woman's traumatic past, which becomes the film's centerpiece.
- ▪The movie is noted for its neo-noir visual style and use of voyeuristic porcelain dolls in the apartment setting.
- ▪Charlie Kaufman, a noted fan, later cast Tom Noonan in 'Synecdoche, New York.'
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On Friday nights, IndieWire After Dark honors fringe cinema in the streaming age with midnight movies from any moment in film history. First, the BAIT: a weird genre pick, and why we’re exploring its specific niche right now. Then, the BITE: a spoiler-filled answer to the all-important question, “Is this old cult film actually worth recommending?” The Bait: “Before Sunrise” Meets David Lynch in the Creepiest First Date Movie Ever Made If you’re in New York City now through June 14, you can see Dill Harcourt in “Girls” (aka Corey Stoll) and an “SNL” MVP from 2012-2022 (aka Cecily Strong, in a brilliant, full-throated dramatic performance) onstage Off-Broadway at the Minetta Lane Theatre in “What Happened Was…” blogherads.adq.push(function () { blogherads .defineSlot( 'medrec',…
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