Small Apartments

"Small Apartments" follows the misadventures of Franklin Franklin (Matt Lucas) who has killed his seedy landlord before the opening credits roll.
Following a hilarious body disposal (which ranks as one of cinema's funniest staged suicides -- so I won't ruin it for you) the film delves into the lives of the eccentric residents of Franklin Franklin’s (small) apartment complex in Los Angeles. These kooky tenants are not just figures of fun -- each feels pleasantly three-dimensional and helps flesh-out the world around Franklin. Johnny Knoxville, Juno Temple and James Caan provide strong performances in minor roles but it's painful obvious that Matt Lucas is the star of this show, holding the whole film together at moments. Lucas easily adapts a concoction of the characters from Little Britain (albeit with a forced American accent) which fit perfectly into the murky and dark tone of the film.
Billy Crystal also delivers a noteworthy performance as well as Peter Stormare who gives a great turn as the skin-crawling, sleazy landlord.

This twisted comedy has some genuinely funny moments but it has real heart and isn't afraid to show it. That said, I was left feeling wanting.
This is not a must-see and unless you’re a passionate fan of Matt Lucas and his post-Little Britain career then I wouldn’t rush to the cinema. But fans of black comedies should definitely rent, download or stream this odd character-driven flick -- just keep in mind that it never becomes the break-though gem you'll be hoping for during your viewing.