Jun
Great World of Sound is bittersweet dramedy directed by Craig Zobel and starring Pat Healy. The film centers on Martin (Healy), a new employee at a record label who is partnered with flamboyant Clarence (Kene Holliday). Martin finds his enthusiasm for his new job fading as he finds himself struggling with the moral dilemma of swindling money from poor artists.
Martin’s qualms are initially calmed by focusing on the goal of helping unknown talent begin their musical careers. But it soon becomes apparent that the higher ups at his label make no distinction between truly talented singers and painful karaoke acts, as long as they are able to scam money from the pockets of the gullible.
The first half of the film contains an excellent balance of humor, poignancy, and drama. Sadly, though, the latter portion loses its spark as we’re pulled into Martin’s growing discontentment. The ending seems weak compared to the beginning, but it’s worth watching the entire movie for the stellar performance by Kene Holliday as Clarence.