Scripted Feature (Comedy)

Director / Writer / Editor: Liz Kaar

A friendsgiving goes awry when the relatives show up uninvited… What do you give up and gain for family?

“Given the yearly barrage of media that seems to greet every American holiday, there are relatively few movies that give Thanksgiving its due. At long last, Turkey Day celebrants will get their fill with this feature comedy debut from director, Liz Kaar. The story follows a young couple, Rita and Marty (​​Mary Jesse Price and Billie Bullock), as they ready their apartment for an epic Friendsgiving gathering. Or rather we watch Marty painstakingly prepare for the big meal, while Rita guilt trips about not going to her family’s for the holiday. As it happens, her family shows up at her doorstep unannounced, throwing all of her and Marty’s big party plans into disarray. Things go further awry when a surprise blizzard forces everyone to hunker down in their small apartment for the night. While the concept is pure farce, at its heart The Turkey is a loving portrait of the evolving dynamics between friends and family. Relationships are put to the test; some emerge stronger than ever, others disintegrate beyond repair. Kaar’s script keeps the laughs and the horrors coming as resentments rise and inhibitions fall away. The wacky fun of the premise and the frenetic energy of the camerawork are anchored by terrific performances from the cast who ground their characters with real emotional heft. This feature is a must watch for anyone who loves their comedy with a generous helping of cringe and a healthy pour of tenderness.”