Review of American Movie (1999) by Imgonnaget S — 22 Jan 2010

Hysterical. Depressing. Uplifting. Ironic. Subtle.

These are a few of the adjectives I have come up with to describe this moving, poignant documentary about the trials of one independent filmmaker. Mark is a blue collar resident of a run down Wisconsin town who has a dream of making it big in the motion picture industry. Ever since he was a kid he made movies, mostly horror flicks inspired by the likes of Texas Chainsaw Massacre. His next project differs from his previous endeavors and he calls it "Northwestern". Before he can get it made though, he finishes a previous botched film called "Coven" to help raise the money for "Northwestern".

Everything about this movie is perfect: The irony of this film's struggling filmmakers making a film about a struggling filmmaker, and then making it big at Sundance while Mark is still in the same spot; the gut-busting, absolutely hilarious characters (seriously, every character in this film is fascinating, each one offering more depth and humor than a whole cast in an average hollywood flick); the editing; seamlessly blended footage that is as much a component of the power of the film as the characters are.

The themes at the center of this movie are as timeless as they are timely: Persevering through pain and trouble to achieve your dream. The value of friendship and family. The film also examines the American dream and the concept of a full life; what makes up that life and how is it viewed through the eyes of different generations. At the heart of the film is loss and heartbreak, each character has their own demons, whether it is drugs, alcohol, divorce, poverty, or the fact that the future is not one worth living for. The audience is put in the unique position to decide whether to laugh or cry in some scenes, and it is possible to choose both.

The aspect of independent filmmaking was also a strong draw for me. It was like watching a version of my future play out, and I have to tell you, I'm scared. But I also learned that there is hope in any circumstance. There is a chance for redemption for everyone, even those who lost hope a long time ago. This documentary is filmmaking at it's utmost purest and poetic. I guarantee you'll be entertained, but I also guarantee that you'll be moved.