TV Man

TV Man steps boldly into the realm of absurdist comedy, offering a story that’s equal parts bizarre, playful, and unexpectedly profound. Leonardo Valenti leans into the surreal, crafting a narrative that dances between slapstick humor and psychological curiosity, built around a delightfully ridiculous premise: a man in the TV appears just as our protagonist is preparing for the date of his dreams.

Marco, the charmingly anxious and relatable lead, is the anchor to this chaos. On what should be one of the most exciting evenings of his life, he finds himself confronted by a sharply dressed stranger speaking to him from inside his television. The mysterious “TV Man” doesn’t just comment on Marco’s life, he demands something. What begins as a humorous interruption spirals into a series of escalating interactions that blur the line between hallucination and supernatural intervention.

Valenti’s direction shines in his confident embrace of the absurd. Physical humor and slapstick timing are deployed with finesse, reminiscent of classic comedic styles but refreshed with a modern sensibility. Marco’s frantic attempts to maintain composure while battling the intrusive TV presence lead to a string of humorous set pieces, from disastrous grooming attempts to awkward phone calls where he tries to act “normal” amid mounting madness.

And yet, buried beneath the silliness is an exploration of insecurity, self-doubt, and the pressures we place on ourselves when we’re desperate to impress someone. Is the TV Man a figment of Marco’s anxious mind? Or a literal media-bending intruder? Valenti keeps that tension alive without sacrificing the film’s comedic energy.

Stylistically, the film thrives on quick cuts, exaggerated reactions, and punchy dialogue. The pacing is snappy, ensuring laughs never linger too long without progression. The production design, particularly the TV sequences - adds an eerie retro charm, amplifying both the humor and the uncanny vibe.

If there’s a minor shortcoming, it lies in the emotional payoff, which skews more comedic than cathartic. While the journey offers insight into Marco’s mind and growth, the resolution leans toward comedic spectacle rather than emotional resonance. Still, given the film’s genre and tone, this feels fitting more than disappointing.

TV Man is a delightful, quirky ride that celebrates absurdity while gently poking at human vulnerability. It doesn’t ask to be taken too seriously and that’s precisely why it works.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)