Well-known wrestling interviewer Chris Van Vliet and TNA Wrestling legend James Storm are set to appear alongside Disney Channel alumnus Jason Earles (“Hannah Montana”) in a new dark comedic short film titled “Worst Man.” The project, written and directed by Brandon Arroyo, who will also star, is slated to begin production in Los Angeles later this month, with a premiere anticipated at film festivals this fall.
The film, described as a dramatic comedy, centers on a man on the cusp of finalizing his divorce. His two best men attempt to lift his spirits on the afternoon the divorce is set to become official, but their well-intentioned plans reportedly go humorously off the rails. Writer-director Brandon Arroyo shared his vision for the project in a press release, stating, “It’s the kind of humor and heart that I grew up loving on shows like Fresh Prince and Boy Meets World. We want to give people something that feels fresh, something with heart, and something that features a strong brotherhood of friends.”
Arroyo expressed excitement about the eclectic mix of talent assembled for “Worst Man.” “There probably isn’t a person alive who would have predicted this exact group of amazing talent would meld together as a comedic ensemble, yet that’s exactly what I believe we’ve found,” he commented, highlighting the unique chemistry anticipated from the diverse cast.
Chris Van Vliet, a four-time Emmy award-winning host, is widely recognized in the wrestling community for his in-depth interviews and popular podcast, “Insight with Chris Van Vliet.” While primarily known for his work as a host and journalist covering wrestling and entertainment, Van Vliet also has prior acting experience, including a role in the 2021 film “The Christmas Lead.” His inclusion brings a familiar face from the wrestling media landscape to the project.
“Cowboy” James Storm brings his extensive background as a seasoned professional wrestler to the film. A former TNA World Heavyweight Champion and a prominent figure in TNA/Impact Wrestling for many years, particularly as part of iconic tag teams like Beer Money Inc. and America’s Most Wanted, Storm has also been increasingly active in acting. In 2024, he starred in the film “Hotel Underground” and the “Blue Ridge: The Series,” showcasing his transition to different entertainment mediums.
Jason Earles, who famously portrayed Jackson Stewart on the Disney Channel hit series “Hannah Montana,” rounds out the currently announced principal cast alongside Arroyo, Storm, and Van Vliet, promising an interesting dynamic given the varied backgrounds of the performers.
The short film format is currently the focus, but Arroyo sees potential for expansion. “I think this has real potential to become a series or a feature,” he stated. “Right now, we’re focused on making the best short film possible, reaching the full potential of these amazing artists.” This suggests that “Worst Man” could serve as a pilot or proof-of-concept for a larger project if well-received.
The collaboration of personalities from the worlds of professional wrestling, mainstream entertainment journalism, and popular family television in a dark comedy short offers a unique premise. Fans of Storm, Van Vliet, and Earles will likely be eager to see how their distinct talents blend in “Worst Man” when it hits the film festival circuit in the fall.
