BriTANicK Debuts New Films at SXSW: A Journey from Comedy to Feature Filmmaking

Brian McElhaney and Nick Kocher, known collectively as BriTANicK, have cultivated a unique creative partnership characterized by a competitive yet collaborative spirit. Their process often involves intense discussions where both parties advocate for their ideas until they reach a consensus that enhances their work. This dynamic has culminated in the debut of two films at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival: “Pizza Movie,” a college comedy, and “Over Your Dead Body,” a dark dramedy.

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“Pizza Movie” follows a group of college friends, portrayed by Gaten Matarazzo, Sean Giambrone, and Lulu Wilson, who embark on a surreal quest to retrieve a pizza delivered to their dorm while under the influence of a hallucinogen. Despite its absurd premise, the film explores deeper themes of friendship, jealousy, and love, reflecting BriTANicK's commitment to grounding their humor in emotional truth.

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In contrast, “Over Your Dead Body” is an English-language adaptation of the 2021 Norwegian film “The Trip.” Starring Samara Weaving and Jason Segel, the film centers on a couple planning to kill each other during a remote vacation. McElhaney and Kocher approached this project as a creative challenge, aiming to infuse their own style into an existing narrative framework.

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McElhaney and Kocher's journey began in Atlanta, where they grew up in close proximity but only became friends later in high school. Their collaboration took off at New York University, where they were inspired by successful sketch groups and eventually secured a regular show at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. Their early careers included voice work for Cartoon Network and writing for “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “Saturday Night Live,” experiences that honed their comedic skills and flexibility in writing.

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The duo's approach to filmmaking emphasizes audience feedback, as evidenced by their decision to conduct test screenings for “Pizza Movie.” They believe that understanding audience reactions is crucial for refining their work. Producer Billy Rosenberg noted that BriTANicK's ability to blend silliness with grounded character-driven stories sets them apart in the comedy genre.

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Reflecting on their creative process, McElhaney stated, “We know when something just isn’t there,” emphasizing their commitment to quality humor. Kocher added, “You just throw it out there and see what works,” highlighting their adaptability in the writing process.

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As they prepare for the SXSW debut of their films, McElhaney and Kocher are also set to perform a live comedy show, which they admit brings a different kind of stress. Kocher humorously remarked about their nerves regarding the live performance, indicating the duo's ongoing commitment to engaging with their audience in multiple formats.

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BriTANicK's transition from sketch comedy to feature filmmaking showcases their growth as creators. With “Pizza Movie” and “Over Your Dead Body,” they continue to explore the intersection of humor and emotional depth, promising a unique viewing experience for audiences at SXSW and beyond.

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