What a smart quirky dramedy this film starts out to be. David D. is solid as always. He plays the writer of a TV pilot that may or may not make it to the fall schedule. The picture is called “TV Set” because it takes place on the “set” of this TV pilot. It’s a clever play on words, but does it make a good title? I’m not so sure. How about “Auto Pilot?”

Anyway, the film delights in revealing the interpersonal intricacies of producing in Hollywood. David is the writer trying desperately to keep the integrity from draining from his work as everyone in the process from actors to producers interpret and adapt. Of particular interest, is the inability of all involved to express their concerns directly. Everything is a smile, a nod, a bright-eyed twitch, and then, “But there is this one little thing we might want to change.” To those of you outside of LA, you might think it a bit of a spoof on Hollywood. I thought it was probably way to accurate to be a spoof.

It’s beautifully told, compelling, funny, even endearing, but the film stops on a dime before reaching a matured climax, nor is there much of a resolution. Too bad too, because otherwise, there is so much to like. Unfortunately, I’m a big fan of a quenching culmination in my art, if you’re not, you may be quite happy. A weak B+.

-- Book Contest --