This hilarious little Wellington gem is a mockumentary about the titular Edwin and his struggle to live with, and raise awareness of, the little known Koontz Syndrome.

This syndrome affects many people but is often left undiagnosed, because its main symptom is acting like a complete tosser without seeing anything wrong with behaving that way.

Certain his cause will be the focus of a national telethon, Edwin rents office space and hires a secretary to help him administer the funds and raise awareness for his affliction. But the telethon chooses child cancer as its charity instead, forcing Edwin to re-think his plan. A handily-lost cell phone belonging to one Peter Jackson gives him sudden access to a wealth of stars and Edwin decides to mount his own production.

With secretary Lucy in tow, he heads to Hollywood to meet stars and convince them to join his comedy extravaganza. Heading his line-up is that well-known comic, Mel Gibson, whose name acts as a calling card to see others.

The key to this film’s success is the irritating yet likeable lead character, and Bryce Campbell’s keenly-observed performance. Edwin’s complete lack of filter and his self-centred behaviour entangle him in situations both hilarious and perilous, but you keep rooting for him all the same. It’s little wonder Campbell won Best Actor at the recent LA Comedy Festival.

Funny, irreverent and undeniably kiwi, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Edwin: My Life as a Koont is screening for one week only at the Paramount in Wellington, but is also available on DVD and Digital Download.

7/10

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EDWIN: MY LIFE AS A KOONT

New Zealand | 85 minutes | Comedy

Cast: Bryce Campbell, David Fane, Raybon Kan, Nick Ward, Jessica Grace Smith

Director: Jason Stutter

Screenplay: Jason Stutter & Kevin Stevens

http://youtu.be/1drvjZwexqI