Film Review – Jimmy and Stiggs (2025)

      Jimmy and Stiggs, 2025.

      Directed by Joe Begos.

      Featuring Joe Begos, Matt Mercer, Riley Dandy, Jason Eisener, Josh Ethier, and James Russo.

      SYNOPSIS

      A convergence of unfortunate events causes unemployed filmmaker Jimmy Lang to fall into a bender, during which he claims to have been taken by aliens. Fearing their return, he reaches out to his old friend Stiggs to prepare for battle. This film by Joe Begos blends sci-fi, horror, comedy, and substance-fueled escapades as two estranged friends reunite to fend off an alien abduction attempt. The independent film is highly entertaining and impressively shot entirely within Begos' apartment, which undergoes various transformations and levels of chaos.

      Following a sudden alien abduction, Jimmy Lang readies himself for their return by arming up and indulging in a drug and alcohol binge, recruiting his old friend Stiggs to assist in combating the little grey beings. Upon Stiggs' arrival and his attempts to reason with Jimmy about his sanity and need for help, he soon realizes the aliens are indeed real, and the duo must navigate both the threat from the extraterrestrials and the personal issues that drove them apart.

      Begos, also portraying Jimmy and both writing and directing the film, clearly enjoys his role as he recklessly damages his own home. The rapport between Begos and Mercer, who plays Stiggs, is filled with lively and genuine banter, as they navigate friendship while occasionally getting on each other's nerves. Their performances become increasingly frenetic as the characters indulge in drinking, drug use, and wild violence directed at the aliens—providing a fun dynamic that underpins the film.

      The practical effects are noteworthy; the aliens are animatronic and utilize classic effects to replicate blood and gore. The fistfights involving Jimmy and Stiggs against the aliens enhance the film's charm and absurdity as they literally grapple with a puppet that's half their size or smash its head in. Begos also employs creative cinematographic techniques, including extended first-person POV shots where Jimmy explores the apartment as if levitating. He even gives the impression of blinking during these POV moments, which can occasionally become dizzying due to their speed, but serve to immerse the audience in Jimmy’s experience.

      The pacing is solid, although some early physical and verbal altercations feel repetitive. Fortunately, Jimmy and Stiggs keep things fresh by incorporating new weapons or creative strategies to defeat their foes. Once again, the practical effects in various body horror scenes are impressive, and the vibrant neon blood adds a distinctive flair to the otherwise typical alien invasion narrative, making it an excellent solution for the indie budget. Considering this was all filmed in Begos' own residence, one can only imagine the chaotic aftermath.

      Jimmy and Stiggs is remarkable for what it accomplishes within a limited setting and showcases unique visuals. Begos and Mercer exhibit great chemistry as the duo oscillates between reminiscing about better times and their underlying animosity, all while the intensity of their predicament escalates. Begos' direction is adept, resulting in a literally bloody and enjoyable experience.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Ricky Church – Follow me on Bluesky for more movie news and discussions.