Independent Film Fan
BY LINDSEY BLACK, CHANDLER, AZ, USA - Other than the movie BAD T!MING, I never thought I would blog about why I like independent films. I never used to find the point in them until I started taking film classes at Mesa Community College with Cyndi Greening. Once you see the breakdown of a Hollywood movie, you know how each and every movie is going to end up. You can pick the bad guy out easily and tell what the resolution will be. In the independent film industry, you never know what you are going to get. Most people like things that are predictable and safe. I think that is why typical movie goers have a hard time with the change of format of the indie films.
One of the first indie films I saw was WAKING LIFE. I loved it!!!! We also watched the DVD extra on the program they used to make this. At that time, I was in my beginning film classes. For a class project, I ran each frame of the film through Adobe Photoshop to give it a filter for that cartoon look. It turned out pretty cool, but not as detailed as WAKING LIFE. Now I even see that technique used in commercials. My husband calls me in the room every time it is on because he knows I am just amazed by it.
Richard Linklater is now coming out with A SCANNER DARKLY which I am so excited about. I believe this will be a bigger hit because it has A-list actors Keanu Reeves, Robert Downy, Jr., Winona Ryder, and Woody Harrelson. I have to say, he is brilliant and on my list of favorite directors…next to Jabbes… : ).
My first full out experience with Independent films was at Sundance '06. I liked every movie I saw. I know at least two of them will probably never be released (American audiences are not ready). I am so glad I had the chance to see them. I will be a regular attendee from now on.