Stavros Halkias shines in Let's Start a Cult, an eccentric new comedy directed by Ben Kitnick that takes audiences on a riotous journey through the mishaps and chaos of cult life. In the film, Halkias stars as Chip Harper, a bumbling outcast who is left behind after his cult’s botched ritual suicide. The plot follows Chip as he attempts to rebuild the group, teaming up with William Davenport, his former leader (played by Wes Haney), to assemble a new band of unconventional followers. Halkias brings Chip to life with a mix of charm, irreverence, and vulnerability that makes his character’s bizarre journey unexpectedly relatable.
Beyond his on-screen role, Halkias co-wrote the screenplay alongside Kitnick and Haney, channeling his distinct humor into a film that mixes dark comedy with themes of community and self-discovery. This collaborative project is a true passion piece, bringing together Halkias’ knack for edgy, observational comedy with Kitnick’s storytelling, initially seen in Exit Statement, the short film that inspired Let's Start a Cult. Their shared vision brought an array of unique characters to life, from military wannabes to misfit moms, and established Halkias as both an on-screen talent and a creative force behind the scenes.
When I had the chance to speak with Halkias about the film, it was a memorable experience. He’s not only a rising star with a rapidly growing fanbase—an acclaim earned through his comedy specials and the popular podcast Stavvy’s World—but someone I personally admire. His comedic style, known for its authenticity and boldness, has positioned him as a trailblazer in the stand-up scene and on the big screen alike.
The film, set in 2000s-era middle America, captures the quirks and aesthetics of the time through carefully curated production design and costume choices. The cast, which includes comedic veterans Joe Pera, Tom Papa, and Phil “CM Punk” Brooks, adds layers of humor and heart to an already compelling story. Halkias and Haney’s dynamic as Chip and William offers a blend of dysfunction and camaraderie that serves as the backbone of this darkly funny, irreverent comedy—a project that has all the makings of a cult classic in its own right.
Jessie Hobson