I’m looking for an old film (possibly black and white, or very muted coloring) about a group of mental patients who take over an insane asylum. It seemed quite ‘low-budget’ and was probably an ‘exploitation film’ of some sort. I remember very few details. I believe the beginning of the film started with an interview/interrogation with one of the participants, trying to figure out what had happened in the days prior. The film then goes into a ‘flashback’ that shows the entire series of events.
One key detail that I remember is that at one point the inmates hijack a car or small delivery truck of some sort and rig it to keep driving in circles in the middle of the courtyard.
There is some violence, some gunplay, and some really bad acting. I feel like I probably watched it on one of those ‘cult cinema classics’ youtube channels, but can’t seem to find it or remember any other details. But the fact that it was likely on youtube without any payments or restrictions means it’s probably too old/unpopular for anyone to copyright strike.
Sorry I have so few details. I’m hoping one of you film buffs will recognize my description!
You didn’t mention that the people who took over the institution were all little people, but I’d still be willing to bet the movie you are looking for is Even Dwarfs Started Small, an early black-and-white film by German director Werner Herzog. Pretty sure I remember them chasing a car around as it runs circles in the courtyard. It is my least favorite Herzog film, but still worth watching once if only for the weirdness factor. Herzog is probably my single favorite director of all time. If you really want to watch a Herzog masterpiece, I recommend Stroszek, which starred Bruno S., a man who spent decades confined to mental institutions before Herzog cast him to play the lead in The Enigma of Kasper Hauser.
That’s it! And thank you for your suggestion! I’ve seen a bit of Herzog but I think it’s about time for a deep dive! Thanks again!