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While the lighting for most of the interviews was even and balanced (which is no mean feat, considering the wide range of lighting conditions), a few (specifically the one with Stephen Elliot) seemed washed-out and could have benefited from a little additional color balancing in post. Also, when showing clips of the various performances interspersed throughout the film, I would’ve liked to have seen a simple subtitle telling where and when the event took place. (E.g. “Jon’s band ‘DorkSquad’, 2003 concert, San Francisco”.)
Use of Audio
Dean did a great job of working in the musical talents of several of the artists throughout the film, adding in impromptu performances and recordings of live concerts. However, while the audio for most of the interviews was done well, some (such as Richard Kern’s) were fairly tinny and echoed from the sound bouncing off the walls. During shooting, you can put an external mic closer the speaker to reduce this possibility, or a bit of audio editing in post can fix it after the fact.
Use of Budget
At $5,000, this project is right on the money. The production quality is good, especially considering that a good chunk of the funds went toward plane tickets for the various interviews. This is a great example of how you can make a good quality documentary for not a lot of money.
Lasting Appeal
This film is one that every microfilmmaker should watch at least once, because it will inspire you and let you know that it is possible to succeed as an ultra-low-budget artist. I would highly recommend that you watch it, both as a well-done microcinema documentary and as something that will help motivate you as an artist. And it shouldn’t be hard to find on the web, especially since it’s not copy protected. (If you check it out and find that you like it, I would encourage you to buy a copy from Dean’s website; it’s only $7.95 and you’ll be supporting a fellow microfilmmaker in the process!)
Overall Comment
There are a few technical sticky points, mostly over-exposed lighting and tinny audio, which could’ve been touched up in post. But for the most part, this is a well-done documentary that does a great job of showcasing the ups and downs of being an independent artist. I recommend that both aspiring and active microfilmmakers check out this inspiring and supportive film.
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Content |
8.5 |
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Visual
Look |
7.5 |
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Use
of Audio |
7.5 |
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Use
of Budget |
9.0 |
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Lasting
Appeal |
9.0 |
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Overall
Score |
8.3
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A
powerhouse in management, Kari
Ann Morgan successfully produced a feature length film before
coming to work at Microfilmmaker as Assistant Editor. In addition
to writing for the magazine, she's been successfully working with
various distributors to get microfilmmakers the chance for theatrical
distribution. |
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