Fresh off the international film festival circuit, acclaimed director Frank Oz continues to wow audiences with his dark, award-winning comedy Death at a Funeral, the next Reel Alternatives movie on Monday, March 3.

A dignified send-off for a loved one erupts into uproarious chaos when romance, in-laws, jealousy, hallucinogens, life-long yearnings, and a spot of bold blackmail collide in this irreverent British comedy.  

Featuring a stellar cast bursting with humour, the film mischievously explores what happens on a day when a typically divided family is finally forced to come to terms with each other’s bad behaviour, outrageous faults and skeletons in the closet.

The film opens with the sombre delivery of a coffin to the august home of the deceased’s son, who discovers that the body inside is not, in fact, his father. So begins a string of comedic errors as a second coffin is delivered to the mourning family. As riotous mayhem and unfortunate mishaps ensue on every front, a mysterious guest (Peter Dinklage) threatens to unveil an earth-shattering family secret. The two sons must then find a way to hide the truth from their family and bury not only their beloved father but also the secret he’s been keeping.

Death at a Funeral is funny because of Oz’s ability to convey on screen the way tragedy and crisis bring out the best and worst in even the most apparently functional families. The impeccably performed medley of characters is one remarkable element among many in this hilarious film reminiscent of Four Weddings and a Funeral.

Death at a Funeral is sponsored by Mitchell Funeral Home and will be shown on March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Capitol Twin Cinema. It is rated 14A. Advance tickets are $7 at Muskoka Country Furniture and Gifts on Main Street, or $8 at the door if available.  To see more about this non-profit group’s movies and projects visit reelalternativeshuntsville.ca.