Watch The Tavern

The Tavern is a 1999 independent comedy film directed and co-written by Walter Foote. The movie's plot centers around a group of characters who gather at a small-town bar in upstate New York to celebrate the sale of the establishment to a wealthy land developer. However, tensions rise as a blizzard forces everyone inside, and old conflicts and secrets begin to surface.

One of the film's main characters is John, played by Cameron Dye. John is a successful businessman who has returned to his hometown to finalize the sale of the bar. His uptight demeanor and constant cellphone use set him apart from the locals, leading to tension with the other characters. Another main character is Bob, played by Greg Zittel, who is the bar owner's son and a former high school football star. Bob resents John and the changes he brings to the bar's culture but is also dealing with his own personal demons and failures.

The most prominent female character in the film is Lily, played by Margaret Cho. Lily is a free-spirited artist who is a regular at the bar. She shares a complicated history with Bob, and their interactions provide a romantic subplot for the film.

As the storm outside worsens, the group becomes increasingly stuck in the bar, leading to a series of drunken conversations and revelations. Characters confront each other about their past mistakes and current grievances, leading to both humorous and poignant moments. The film also explores themes of gentrification, the changing nature of small towns, and the importance of community.

Despite its limited budget, The Tavern features strong performances from its cast, particularly from Dye, Zittel, and Cho. The film also benefits from Foote's direction, which imbues the movie with a sense of warmth and authenticity. The Tavern is a character-driven comedy that is both funny and insightful, making it a beloved cult classic for indie movie fans.