On a movie set, anything can go wrong. Actors forget their lines, the camera loses focus, unwanted noises appear on the soundtrack, and a great improvisation won’t be filmed. We see all this and more throughout Living in Oblivion.

Tom DiCillo’s fascinating, anarchic comedy draws great performances from Steve Buscemi as the director struggling to achieve a decent take; while Catherine Keener -- beautiful as always -- proves most radiant. The latter plays Nicole, a hard working actress who tries her best even when the elements conspire against her.

In the other corner, James Le Gros delivers a nomination-worthy performance as Chad Palomino, the egotistical big-time thespian. He wants to work on more meaningful projects, yet he doesn’t care about insulting people behind their backs.

Completing this ensemble, Dermot Mulroney dons an eyepatch for his role as Wolf, a good cameraman on the receiving end of a floundering relationship. All the performers are first-rate here.

Overall, Living in Oblivion illustrates the extreme difficulties, personal and professional, inherent in making a movie. I believe aspiring storytellers could find something to enjoy in this take-no-prisoners classic. (Capsule review.)

(Released by Sony Pictures Classics and rated "R" for strong language.)