Directed by Joe Acierno, from a script by Acierno & Michelle Batista, ‘The Playboy of Park Slope’ is a comedy romance that probes the friendship between Shawn (Daniel Bitar), a twenty-something virgin, and his best friend Gabriella (Michelle Batista). Additional cast include; Brian Collins (Eric), Gabrielle O’Donnell (Ashley) and Jenna Reilly (Jaimie). Set in New York City and New Jersey, the amusing, yet melodramatic narrative explores themes of love, sexuality, jealousy, heartbreak and friendship.
The 22-minute film is set in motion with unlucky-in-love Gabriella and best friend Shawn discussing their personal lives (set amongst a spectacular backdrop of Manhattan). After he sheepishly reveals his virginity – to her astonishment – Gabriella proposes an agreement that she will have sex with him before his next birthday. Later, the narrative explores Shawn’s hilarious misfired attempts at flirting, before he eventually charms and loses his virginity to Ashley. The narrative diverges at the midway point, unravelling Shaun’s sexual discontentment and emotional realisation. The film concludes triumphantly with hilarious cringe comedy and an endearing conclusion. A humorous watch throughout.
Acierno and Batista have crafted an amusing tale with an unexpected romantic underbelly. The narrative is well constructed, with a compelling character flaw and catalyst (losing virginity). Despite a peculiar one-off scene of breaking the fourth wall, the film manages to clasp engagement and entertain. The friendship between Shawn and Gabriella would benefit from further emotional scrutiny – particularly with the concluding scene. Regardless, the characterisation, acting delivery and production quality is highly commendable. The entire cast, notably Bitar and Batista, give outstanding performances throughout. This light-hearted comedy will make you cringe, laugh and smile. Highly recommended.
