Is What is... Puscifer Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2013)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2013, What is... Puscifer represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Music, Comedy category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The two-hour sketch comedy show-meets-concert film builds upon and punctuates the multimedia format of the band's live performances with skits from the stable of Puscifer characters such as Billy D, Hildy and Major Douche woven into the performance footage of the Maynard James Keenan led quintet. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Music, Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The two-hour sketch comedy show-meets-concert film builds upon and punctuates the multimedia format of the band's live performances with skits from the stable of Puscifer characters such as Billy D, Hildy and Major Douche woven into the performance footage of the Maynard James Keenan led quintet."Being surrounded by so many talented and creative people is an endless source of inspiration. This film only scratches the surface of how deep our proverbial rabbit hole goes. What Is Puscifer is meant to conjure as many questions as it answers," explained Maynard James Keenan.Puscifer's concerts have been praised for their out-of-the-box take on what a live performance can be, with the Orange County Register saying "the production matters as much as the music" and describing the event as "a thought-provoking, senses-jabbing statement on a variety of topics.""

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Maynard James Keenan, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Music. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by the visionary director is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 116 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is What is... Puscifer truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Music, Comedy, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, What is... Puscifer explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2013 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and the visionary director respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, What is... Puscifer is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Maynard James Keenan or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, What is... Puscifer is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.