Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress 1995
Dive into the delightfully chaotic world of *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress (1995)*, a short-form comedy that skewers the over-the-top tropes of theatre and drama school culture with sharp wit and playful absurdity.
Director: Peter Burger
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress* (1995) about?
This short comedy film peels back the curtain on the chaotic world of theatre rehearsals, lampooning everything from pretentious directors to cringe-worthy warm-up exercises. It follows the 'work in progress' of director Ashley Thorndyke, played by Jason Hoyte, as his cast navigates a series of absurd and over-the-top exercises.
Who directed *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress*?
Peter Burger, who was fresh out of Broadcasting School at the time, co-directed the film alongside its conceptual creator, Duncan Sarkies.
Who stars in *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress*?
The film features a dynamic cast including Jonny Brugh, Jemaine Clement, Jason Hoyte, Phil McMurtrie, and Justin Telford.
Is *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress* (1995) worth watching?
With its sharp satire of theatre culture and a cast of rising stars, *Ash* is a hidden gem for fans of 90s comedy and mockumentary styles. While IMDb ratings aren't available, its cult status among New Zealand theatre enthusiasts speaks volumes—just don't expect subtlety.
How long is *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress*?
The runtime of *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress* is 28 minutes.
About Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress (1995) — A 90s Satire of Theatre Clichés
Dive into the delightfully chaotic world of *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress (1995)*, a short-form comedy that skewers the over-the-top tropes of theatre and drama school culture with sharp wit and playful absurdity. Directed by Peter Burger, fresh from Broadcasting School, and co-directed with the film's conceptual mind, Duncan Sarkies (known for *Two Little Boys* and *Scarfies*), this 28-minute gem immerses viewers in the creative chaos of a 'work in progress' devised by the enigmatic Ashley Thorndyke (played by Jason Hoyte). The film bristles with the energy of Wellington's 90s theatre scene, featuring a cast of emerging talents—including Jonny Brugh, Jemaine Clement, and Justin Telford—who gleefully poke fun at everything from pretentious directors to cringe-inducing warm-up exercises like primal screams and impersonating animals. With its mockumentary style and satire of thespian clichés, *Ash* offers a nostalgic yet timeless peek behind the curtain of artistic pretension.
Filmed in the gritty, creative heart of 90s Wellington, *Ash: Ashley Thorndyke - Work in Progress* captures the raw, unfiltered spirit of local theatre circles, where ambition and absurdity collide. The cast, drawn from the vibrant orbit of Bats Theatre and Victoria University, brings a magnetic energy to the screen, turning clichés into comedy gold. Whether it's the 'wanky' director stereotype or the obligatory ice-breakers that spiral into madness, the film's satire feels as fresh today as it did in the mid-90s. A cult favorite among New Zealand comedy aficionados, this short film is a must-see for fans of sharp, self-aware humour and the behind-the-scenes madness of theatre.