The 2024 drama American Trash is Robert LaSardo with an edge. This tight tale is deep and quite often disturbing. This is a film that you literally cannot stop watching.
It is that riveting.
The Story
Milles is a veteran suffering from intense PTSD. His warring emotions fight against guilt, bad memories and an unhealthy obsession with Charles Manson. His struggles are eased when he meets Melissa. Another Manson fan. She believes in Milles and helps show him the way.
Then the underbelly of Los Angeles crudely enters Venice and Milles returns to his dark journey.
The cast
Robert LaSardo is Milles.
Lorelei Linklater is Melissa.
Costas Mandylor is Detective Anderson.
Tom Sizemore is Detective Kelly.
Gigi Gustin is Mandy.
Elissa Dowling is Linda.
Sheila Ball is Abby.
Sasha Kerbel is Susan.
Lance Caver is Jared.
Rich R. Rendon is Tai.
B. Luciano Barsuglia is Alvin.
Behind and in Front
LaSardo is behind and in front of the camera for this one. Robert wrote the original story and screenplay with revision credit going to Adrian Milnes. The actor also produces and directs American Trash. LaSardo also worked as casting director and did the set decoration. For the record? Robert LaSardo has indeed “out-Rodiguez-ed” the other filmmaking Robert.
It works
The story itself is powerful. After a somewhat hopeful, if disconcerting, open; American Trash follows up with a sense of foreboding you can almost taste. As Milles journey progresses, we learn of just how deeply his wartime experiences have affected him.
A Short Detour
American Trash offers a truly accurate picture of Southern California. I can attest to that; I lived there in the late ’70s. The locations and the depiction of the average denizens who inhabit this part of the world brings back vivid memories.
All that aside, it seems prudent to mention one line in the film. Milles Tells Tai that “Los Angeles will burn” (sic). His delivery is intense and clearly metaphorical. However, relative to current events in Southern California, this did actually make me shiver.
And while on this detour, I will mention that it was a bittersweet moment to see longtime favorite Tom Sizemore. The man was an acting chameleon and is missed.
Back to the topic at hand
American Trash is almost a work of art. LaShardo takes us on a journey that is full of angst, inner turmoil and grief. We just know that this will not end well.
For anyone.
Everything Else
The cinematography (By Mike Le, Andrew Roberts, Reece Scarpignato.) is spot on. It is tight and concise. Whether filming in the back of a van or a small restaurant, it is perfect. The score by Anthony Espina sets the tone for every scene.
The acting here is phenomenal. *Side note: The first thing I saw Mr LaSarda in was the 2008 Death Race remake. His role amounted to almost being a cameo, albeit a long one. He captivated and was so good at his characterization that he stole whatever scene he was in. *
LaSardo proves point blank that not only can he direct but the man is an acting giant. His portrayal of Milles is moving and, at times, painful. He gives us the PTSD veterans suffering on a plate. This plate is not overblown nor is it a characterization. LaSardo’s suffering is almost as silent as Milles himself.
All the actors deliver here. I use the phrase “brought their A game to the table” a lot in my reviews. But it definitely applies here. Linklater’s performance as Melissa was as far removed from the atypical “beach bunny” persona as one can get. She sold her Manson obsession easily and we do fall in love with her just a little.
The Verdict
This is a full 5 star film. American Trash is mesmerising and leads you completely into the world of Milles and those people who share his journey. It also touches on the sacrifices made by those who serve.
the trailer
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