An unsuspecting man finds out that his newlywed bride is a worrying shade of kooky in the dark comedy Flatters. Directed by Dennis Flippin, this 12-minute short film is a humorous look at relationship icks and the consequences of accidentally marrying a conspiracy theorist.

Who the F did I marry!?

Lenny (Doug Wyckoff) is a single, middle-aged cat man who lives a simple life in an airstream next to the river. In a voiceover that lasts nearly the entire first half of the film, Lenny explains that he is interested in exploring the world of online dating. Turning to Craigslist (a major red flag), he hopes to find a love connection. He quickly matches with Georgia and the two hit it off immediately. Fast forward to the near future, Lenny and his Craigslist lover are married and cohabitating in his trailer. Things seem all good in Lenny’s world. That is, until Georgia reveals a side of herself that leaves Lenny truly befuddled.

Georgia, an author, excitedly shares her new book with Lenny, titled Flatters: The Truth About Our Flat Earth. Dumbfounded, Lenny clarifies what he already knows to be true… does Georgia really believe the Earth is flat? As she begins spewing nonsense about how the moon landing was staged, and how NASA has been guarding the edge of the Earth this entire time, Lenny begins to panic. Who the F did he marry!?

Flatters the feature film, coming soon

Flatters is a thoroughly engaging film that offers lead actor Doug Wyckoff a solid vehicle to stretch his comedic muscles. Visually, the film has the color palette of a soap opera but the action of a cable network comedy. Director Dennis Flippin leans into the obscure, especially during the film’s final moments. He isn’t afraid to be bold in achieving his vision. Now with the 12-minute short film under his belt, Flippin plans to turn Flatters into a feature.

Takeaway

Making its World Premiere at the LA Shorts International Film Festival, Flatters is lighthearted fare that pokes fun at the consequences of rushing into relationships, especially if they were conceived through Craigslist.