Special (film)

2006 American film

Poster for Special

Special is a 2006 American independent film that blends elements of science fiction, comedy, and drama. Directed by Hal Haberman and Jeremy Passmore, the film stars Michael Rapaport as a man who believes he has developed superpowers after participating in a pharmaceutical trial. The film explores themes of mental health, self-discovery, and the impact of modern medicine on the human psyche.

Plot

The film follows Les Franken, a lonely and unassuming parking enforcement officer who volunteers for a clinical trial of a new antidepressant called "Special." As he begins taking the medication, Les experiences what he believes to be superhuman abilities, including telepathy, telekinesis, and the ability to levitate.

Convinced of his newfound powers, Les quits his job and embarks on a mission to become a superhero, attempting to fight crime and help those in need. However, as his actions become increasingly erratic, it becomes clear that his "powers" are hallucinations caused by the drug. The film delves into Les's struggle to distinguish between reality and his delusions, ultimately leading to a confrontation with the pharmaceutical company responsible for the drug.

Cast

• Michael Rapaport as Les Franken
• Paul Blackthorne as Jonas Exiler
• Josh Peck as Joey
• Robert Baker as Everett
• Jack Kehler as Dr. Dobson
• Alexandra Holden as Maggie

Production

Special was shot on a modest budget, characteristic of many independent films. The directors, Haberman and Passmore, sought to create a film that was both entertaining and thought-provoking, using the concept of superpowers as a metaphor for personal empowerment and the dangers of pharmaceutical dependency.

Themes

The film explores several themes, including the nature of reality, the power of belief, and the societal impact of mental illness. Les's journey is a poignant commentary on the search for meaning and identity in a world that often feels indifferent.

Reception

Upon its release, Special received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised Rapaport's performance and the film's unique premise, others felt that the execution was uneven. Despite this, the film has gained a cult following for its offbeat approach and thought-provoking narrative.

Related pages

• Independent film
• Superhero film
• Mental health in film
• Pharmaceutical industry