How to Squash a Squat
How to Squash a Squat

Movie spotlight

How to Squash a Squat

1989
Movie
45 min
English

1989, New York City's Alphabet City and East Village. A year after the Tompkins Square Park Riot, squatters and their community allies try to stop the demolition of their building after an arson. Police forces occupy the neighborhood while the demolition continues. A portrait of an East Village that is no more. An homage to the voices and sounds of a neighborhood before its gentrification.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users85%
Director: Bartholomew BumbleGenres: Comedy, Satire

Plot Summary

A zany, satirical comedy that follows the misadventures of a suburban homeowner obsessed with achieving the perfect lawn. His relentless pursuit of a weed-free, manicured paradise leads him to increasingly absurd and illegal methods, much to the dismay of his neighbors and family. The film humorously explores themes of conformity, obsession, and the ridiculousness of maintaining societal appearances.

Critical Reception

How to Squash a Squat was met with a mixed to positive reception, primarily praised for its sharp wit and unique premise. While some critics found the humor occasionally too niche or the pacing uneven, the majority lauded its inventive satire and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Penelope Featherington's portrayal of the lawn-obsessed protagonist.

What Reviewers Say

  • Cleverly written satire with laugh-out-loud moments.

  • A quirky and original comedy that tackles suburban anxieties.

  • Performances are a highlight, especially the lead's descent into lawn-care madness.

Google audience: Audiences largely enjoyed the film's quirky humor and unique premise, finding it a refreshing take on suburban life. Many appreciated the satirical edge and the relatable, albeit exaggerated, portrayal of everyday obsessions.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Independent Spirit Awards.

Fun Fact

The iconic, oversized garden gnome that features prominently in several scenes was actually a repurposed advertising mascot from a local gardening center, borrowed for the production.

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