Celebrating The Resurrection

DELRAY BEACH – Jim Patterson’s vision for his film trilogy didn’t include a champagne toast, but that’s exactly how it ended.

On Tuesday night comics from all over Florida gathered at the Movies of Delray to enjoy the premiere of Patterson’s third short film, “The Resurrection.”

They weren’t disappointed.

“This was a great night,” Miami-based comic Freddy Stebbins said. “This was one of the best events I’ve seen in 20 years for the comedy community.”

Stebbins hosted the pre-show red carpet event that streamed on Facebook.

The Resurrection featured more than 30 Florida comics, and most of them attended Thursday’s screening.

“I like what they did with everybody,” said Steve Lamm, who not only had a small acting part, but also played the ukulele on one of the soundtrack’s songs. “I think everyone made it in.”

Patterson and script writer Dean Napolitano, wanted the 30-minute film to contain a message. In the plot, Patterson is a deceased comic trying to make it into heaven. Before he can cross though the gates, he’s sent back to earth to help right a comic struggling with alcohol and a changing comedy landscape.

“It wasn’t just an amazing film, but with a message that I think a lot of us can relate to – including myself,” Stebbins said.

Napolitano, based in Orlando, played that veteran comic who’s act had lost its luster. Treasure Coast-based Casey Peruski played a young Jim Patterson sent to help Napolitano see the light.

“A whole bunch of comics, they got the message,” Patterson said.

Patterson addressed those in attendance prior to the viewing, thanking them for helping with the production. Afterward comics gathered in the theater lobby to toast the man who made the night possible.

“Beautiful setup, beautiful room – really surpassed expectations,” Peruski said. “Really an honor to be a part of it.”