Directed by Tony Olmos and written by Brian Patrick Butler, who also stars in the film, a tyrannical landlady lords it over her tenants during an epidemic, pitting them against each other in a web of paranoia spun for deadly results. Also starring: Kimberly Weinberger, Aimee La Joie, Randy Davison, Merrick McCartha, Matthew Rhodes and Nick Young.
When you think of a satire of modern American, a film like Hemet, or the Landlady Don’t Drink Tea probably wouldn’t be what you imagine but it’s surprisingly an interesting and unusual take on a number of current issues. Whether that be guns, assault, healthcare or the housing crisis, Brian Patrick Butler manages to play around with a lot of different themes. It doesn’t take a biting view but it does point out some hypocrisies and broken dynamics.
Another element that certainly wouldn’t be expected is Butler dressing up in drag as the titular landlady, Liz. Why did he choose to do it? Very unclear, it doesn’t feel like a particularly necessary choice but it does feed into that slightly sleazy and a little bit unhinged tone that the writing goes for. It’s reminiscent of the headmistress in St. Trinian’s or Edna in Hairspray, it’s not at all intended to be subtle, it’s trashy and over the top. It’s surprising that Butler pulls it off but Liz is such a maniacal character, that adding this bizarre element works well.
It’s also a strange view to take on a zombie apocalypse, making it more like a nuisance than a ravaging, world-ending virus. It’s a good example of how Hemet, or the Landlady Don’t Drink Tea has a good sense of humour, the comedy feels much like a skit. Not everything works but there’s more than enough to keep it going. Although towards the end, it feels like it’s in a rush to close things out. The editing and story are both in a big hurry and the final note falls slightly flat.
Although, the performances are consistent across the board, matching the film’s strange, melodramatic and sleazy tone. Everyone has a chip on their shoulder and a IDAF attitude in a world that just keeps kicking them while they’re down. Yet, we still get a few characters to root for, particularly Kimberly Weinberger’s Rosie, who’s strong, independent and feisty. As well as Matthew Rhodes’ Gary, who has a nice little bit of sincerity to throw into the mix. We also get more characters to dislike, especially Nick Young’s Tank, who has a classic villain energy, he’s manipulative and sinister, which is fun to watch.
Hemet, or the Landlady Don’t Drink Tea is about as unusual as its title would imply. It’s as if you merged satire with exploitation and created a strange kind of crooked comedy. Playing by its own rules and embracing the b-movie vibe. It’s slightly chaotic and not all of the jokes work but it’s certainly got individuality and tries to have fun with it.
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