سيرة
Paul wrote, directed, and starred in The Happy Poet, which debuted internationally at the Venice Film Festival and in the U.S. at South by Southwest. The film was showcased at festivals worldwide, earning jury and audience awards, and was available for streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Since then, Paul has appeared in notable festival films including Mr. Roosevelt (Dir. Noel Wells; Netflix), Dr. Brinks and Dr. Brinks (Dir. Josh Crockett; Amazon Prime), Savasana (Dir. Brandon Daley; Vimeo Staff Pick), Thunder P. (Dir. Steve Collins; Funny or Die), and I Need a Hug (Dir. Steve Collins; Vimeo Staff Pick).
Critics on The Happy Poet:
"My favorite movie at this year's SXSW is a small comedy, both wistful and sharply witty, called The Happy Poet. ... my heart swelled during the film's powerful climax, and the final shot moved me to tears. Austin filmmaker Paul Gordon, who wrote, directed, edited, and starred in the film, should be very proud." ~Karen Valby, Entertainment Weekly
"A charming, subtle film about finding meaning in life and work amid a mercenary world. The Happy Poet’s offhand yet artfully observed deadpan humor balances its critique of class and sustainability, culminating in a complex ending that, like Bill himself, might not be what it seems." ~Michelle Orange, The Village Voice
"With its relaxed tone, The Happy Poet recalls Richard Linklater's 1991 indie comedy Slacker, also set in Austin. Gordon's first feature post-film school, however, is more confident, polished, and ready for a wider audience." ~Michael O'Sullivan, The Washington Post
"The poet yearns for happiness but lacks the know-how. It's a clever premise, and Gordon delivers it with enough creativity and restraint to make much of the film amusing in thought-provoking, subversive ways. A promising debut." ~Mike Hale, The New York Times
"This deadpan, low-budget comedy about a wistful man starting a health-food stand and the ensuing complications is a hidden gem—a quietly charming and profound film that surprises you. It's also, fortunately, perfectly acted." ~New York Magazine
"The Happy Poet, a deadpan comedy directed by Austin’s Paul Gordon, moves at the lively pace of a light romantic comedy. Everything is cheerfully conventional except for Gordon's hilariously monotone performance, an ironic contrast to the film’s title." ~Eric Kohn, IndieWIRE
"The film’s dry humor conveys sincerity rather than the ironic detachment common in many indie films." ~Todd Gilchrist, Cinematical
Reviews for Saturday Morning Mystery (Massacre):
"Subtle performances stand out, especially Paul Gordon as the monotone police officer leading the team through the abandoned house, casually noting 'We found a leg over here,' as if reading TV programming instructions." – Ain't It Cool News
"The cast performs well overall, but I particularly liked Paul Gordon’s sheriff for his aloof, dry delivery, which shines when he recounts the haunted house’s history. He seems skeptical—why else would he suggest they stay elsewhere?" – Film Threat
"Officer Lance (Paul Gordon) earns the most laughs with his dry delivery. Unlike typical horror law enforcement characters, he’s level-headed and develops a crush on Nancy—who could blame him? A standout casting choice in Saturday Morning Massacre." – Smells Like Screen Spirit
"Paul Gordon is spot-on as Officer Lance, with deadpan storytelling about the house and its past residents that’s delightful." – Shock Till You Drop
"Officer Lance (Paul Gordon), not part of the Scooby gang, steals many of the funniest moments. His laconic delivery may seem off at first but quickly becomes hilarious. A throwaway line about something found in the school is funnier than any in The Cabin In The Woods (which I loved!)." – Bloody Disgusting
