Watch Peoria Babylon

Peoria Babylon is a 1997 American independent comedy film directed by Chuck LeVinus. It stars David Drake as Dwight Adkins, a playwright who returns to his hometown of Peoria, Illinois, after a long absence to attend his father's funeral. While staying with his sister Marlene (Ann Cusack), Dwight rekindles old relationships and confronts past demons.

The movie is a goofy, irreverent comedy that pokes fun at small-town life and the kitschy charm of the American Midwest. It's a satire that takes a lighthearted approach to some heavy issues - family dysfunction, alcoholism, and mental illness - without ever feeling exploitative or heavy-handed.

Dwight is an interesting character - an intellectual snob who looks down on the townsfolk but can't help getting drawn into their drama. His interactions with his sister Marlene are the heart of the movie - they bicker and needle each other, but there's an underlying affection there that's touching.

The supporting cast is solid, too. Matthew Pestorius plays Dwight's childhood friend Danny, who's now a struggling artist living in his parents' basement. He and Dwight have a strained relationship, but there's a genuine kinship there.

There's also a trio of elderly women who steal every scene they're in - they're Dwight's former babysitters, and they've remained close friends into their golden years. Their quips and jibes provide some of the movie's biggest laughs.

Peoria Babylon is a visually interesting movie - it's shot on location in Peoria, and there are some beautiful shots of the city's sprawling landscape. The cinematography is crisp and colorful, which gives the movie a lively, energetic feel.

The screenplay is well-crafted, too. The dialogue crackles with wit and humor, and there are some great one-liners and running gags. The movie avoids some of the clichés of the genre, too - there's no grand romantic subplot, no life-changing epiphanies. It's just a snapshot of a few days in the life of a dysfunctional family, and that's more than enough.

Overall, Peoria Babylon is an underrated gem of the '90s indie scene. It's a charming, funny movie that's well worth seeking out. Whether you're a fan of quirky comedies, family dramas, or just good storytelling, this is a movie that's sure to please. Highly recommended.