Review by Frank Plowright

Steven Hollis considers himself a screenwriter, but the truth is he’s a Hollywood screw-up, a drinker and a gambler on the verge of being evicted. His one success is actually someone else. Diedrich Ryan is now a movie star, a mate Steven had faith in and pushed to maximise his opportunities, and when he pays Steven back via inviting him along to a director’s bachelor party in Mexico it seems an opportunity has come his way. The problem is, that party’s also an opportunity for someone else, and if Steven wants to clear his debts he’ll have to commit murder.

The sad sack in so far over his head he’s drowning is a staple of crime fiction, and Dave Dwonch plays that aspect really well, establishing Steven as basically well-meaning, but all too easily falling prey to excess and temptation. However, pretty well everyone else featured is restricted to the single characteristic. There’s the loyal minder, the egotistical film star and the violent gangster. As The Loose End is plot driven comedy where things go from bad to worse, they just about pull their weight, but it’s a close call.

Dwonch stitches the plot together from scenes you’ll be familiar with, such as taking the guy who’s been shot to a vet for treatment, and actors living their roles. A succession of movie references is also dropped, but while the homage elements are obvious Dwonch doesn’t bring enough of his own ideas to the table. The one that he does have concerning two leading actors is trite and may offend despite the comedy surroundings.

Travis Hymel’s people can be stiff, and without names in the dialogue it would be difficult to separate some cast members, but there are otherwise no storytelling problems.

As The Loose End continues, you may wonder what the title means. That’s only revealed on the final pages, as an opportunity is taken at considerable risk. It’s indicative of everyone in Hollywood grasping at the golden ring, and a case could be made for that being why appalling behaviour is overlooked. However, it’s morally unsatisfying and prioritises a smart, cinematic conclusion over any form of reality.

The Loose End just about works as homage, but there’s nothing original about it.