This is Encino Poster

This is Encino 2009

82 min📅 2009-01-01

"Three Players...Two Thieves...One Plan...Zero Chance of Success."

In *This is Encino* (2009), a last-minute heist spirals into chaos when a small-time crook scrambles to pull off a big score. Directed by Michael Gemballa, this darkly comedic crime caper follows three bumbling thieves whose poorly laid plan unravels from the very first misstep.

Director: Michael Gemballa

Cast

Chris Cortesi
Maynard
Howard Gibson
Seymour
Douglas Turner
Rocco
Damien Midkiff
Bartholomew
Jonathan Shell
Robber #1 / Derek
Sean Durrie
Robber # 2 / Tristan
Shawna Marie
Kim
Lawrence Dwyer
Dutch
Nima Mehran
Security Guard
Joseph Venouziou
Banana Man

Frequently Asked Questions

What is This is Encino (2009) about?

*This is Encino* follows three would-be thieves whose hastily planned robbery immediately goes awry. What starts as a simple score spirals into a series of mishaps, forcing the trio to scramble for a way out. The film captures the absurdity and tension of a plan collapsing in real time.

Who directed This is Encino?

This is Encino was directed by Michael Gemballa, who brings a sharp, comedic edge to the crime genre.

Who stars in This is Encino?

The film stars Chris Cortesi, Howard Gibson, Douglas Turner, Damien Midkiff, Jonathan Shell, and Sean Durrie as the core ensemble of flawed schemers.

Is This is Encino (2009) worth watching?

*This is Encino* is a solid pick for fans of dark comedies with a crime twist. Its tight runtime and snappy pacing keep the energy high, and the flawed characters make it easy to root for their downfall. While not a blockbuster, it offers a satisfying, low-stakes thrill ride for genre enthusiasts.

How long is This is Encino?

This is Encino has a runtime of 82 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About This is Encino (2009) — A chaotic heist comedy unravels in sun-drenched Encino

In *This is Encino* (2009), a last-minute heist spirals into chaos when a small-time crook scrambles to pull off a big score. Directed by Michael Gemballa, this darkly comedic crime caper follows three bumbling thieves whose poorly laid plan unravels from the very first misstep. With a tight runtime of 82 minutes, the film blends sharp wit with the gritty unpredictability of a half-baked scheme, where every miscalculation feels both hilarious and inevitable. The story thrives on the tension between ambition and incompetence, set against the sun-drenched, slightly seedy backdrop of Encino. Chris Cortesi, Howard Gibson, and Douglas Turner shine as the trio just trying to stay one step ahead—of the law, their own flaws, and each other.

Gemballa's direction keeps the tone snappy and unpredictable, turning a story of failed crime into a darkly entertaining ride. The film's humor emerges from the sheer absurdity of the characters' situations, amplifying the stakes without ever taking itself too seriously. Whether you're a fan of crime comedies with a razor's edge or just love a good underdog story gone sideways, *This is Encino* delivers a punchy, fast-paced escape into the world of small-time hustlers who bite off more than they can chew.