Actor Jason Biggs makes his directorial debut with 'Untitled Home Invasion Romance,' a dark comedy influenced by the Coen brothers. The film stars Biggs as a man staging a fake break-in to win back his wife, played by Meaghan Rath. He discussed the project at Italy's Torino Film Festival, marking his first visit since gaining Italian citizenship.
Project Overview
Jason Biggs, best known for his role in the 1990s comedy 'American Pie,' steps behind the camera for the first time with 'Untitled Home Invasion Romance.' The story follows Kevin, a commercial actor portrayed by Biggs, who is separated from his wife Suzie (Meaghan Rath). Desperate to reconcile, Kevin arranges a staged home invasion during a romantic getaway, but the plan spirals into chaos when Suzie reacts unexpectedly.
Biggs describes the film as a 'dark comedy about two people who don't really know each other,' highlighting Rath's performance as the complex lead who refuses victimhood. He emphasizes that the project moves away from the lighter tone of 'American Pie,' opting for something 'darker, more unexpected and edgier.'
Influences and Reflections
Drawing inspiration from the Coen brothers, Biggs notes their films as a key reference point upon reading the script. 'They are my favorite filmmakers,' he told Variety. 'When I first read the script, I thought: 'Oh, this is also happening in that kind of world.'' He briefly considered directing a more traditional comedy similar to 'American Pie' but chose this edgier path to align with his current viewing preferences.
Biggs also laments the decline of theatrical comedies, stating, 'People watch things at home, and studios are more inclined to keep cinemas for action and superhero films.' He believes laughter is best shared in a theater, recalling the contagious energy of 'American Pie's' release. Additionally, he expresses openness to TV roles like his stint as Larry in 'Orange Is the New Black,' praising the medium's current strength.
Festival Appearance
The interview occurred at the Torino Film Festival, Biggs' first trip to Italy after becoming a citizen through his Sicilian family roots. 'It's the very first time I got to use my new passport,' he shared. Now 27 years after 'American Pie,' Biggs reflects gratefully on his career evolution toward content creation in the digital age.