Inspired by 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'Astoria, Queens' unfolds as a sitcom snapshot of the lives of Kansas City misfits who trade the plains for the dazzling, yet daunting, streets of New York's Emerald City. Led by Thom, a modern-day Dorothy nursing a broken heart, the eclectic group, including a tin man in search of love, a cowardly lion aspiring to act, and a brainless scarecrow dreaming of rap stardom, navigates the challenges of Astoria, Queens. With a barrage of running gags and a spirited cast, the film blends rapid-fire comedy with moments of genuine solidarity, offering a comical portrait of twenty-somethings pursuing dreams in the Big Apple.
Astoria, Queens (2009)
In the whimsical realm of “Astoria, Queens” (2009), director and writer Kyle Coker takes inspiration from “The Wizard of Oz” to craft a sitcom-style narrative. The story unfolds as a group of Kansas City misfits embarks on a new chapter in the vibrant and intimidating Emerald City of New York, or more precisely, the neighborhood of Astoria, Queens.
The plot revolves around Thom, our modern-day Dorothy, reeling from a broken heart and seeking solace in the bustling city. Each character mirrors a classic Oz archetype – Anisha, reminiscent of the tin man searching for her heart, Callie, a cowardly lion yearning for courage in her acting career, and Jimboy, a brainless scarecrow with dreams of becoming the first gay white rap star.
The film cleverly weaves a tapestry of running gags, offering a comedic snapshot of the characters’ lives as they navigate the challenges of pursuing their dreams. The pace is relentless, with a barrage of one-liners delivered by a spirited cast that plays it for all it’s worth. At times, the comedy feels almost too fast, demanding the audience’s attention.
Beneath the surface of rapid-fire humor, moments of genuine solidarity emerge as the friends rally for each other, particularly when rent is due at the end of the month. The camaraderie is palpable, adding depth to the otherwise zany narrative.
Backed by the lively music of Heloise & The Savoir Faire, Coker’s film encourages leaving one’s comfort zone to chase dreams, consequences be damned. At a brisk 22-minute duration, the film raises the question of whether this might be a pilot, teasing the possibility of these Queens gracing a small screen near you.
“Astoria, Queens” is a comical portrait of twenty-somethings navigating the complexities of life in the Big Apple. With its rapid-fire humor and moments of genuine connection, it stands as a testament to the challenges and camaraderie experienced by those who dare to pursue their dreams in the city that never sleeps.
