Scroll down to watch and rewatch the films. Keep checking back as new reviews and reflections are submitted.
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I
From Vlindinhauer Haverhast
Firstly, I must say, what a night. What a night …
For some years now we’ve been saying “it just gets better and better”, and the other night did not shrink from the expectation. With an over sold house attendance, The New Great Hall by the Sea was bursting at the seams. Moreover, for the first time ever, there was no left over buffet food. OLG always delivers great product, but usually during the clean up I get to feast. Not this year … I had to throw a pizza in the oven. Anyway … next year, e35, we intend to return to where it all began, as the canon film cycle of Extensions restarts. “Extensions” (1985) will kick off the event that will likely be held at a larger venue. There was talk of a cinema or hotel conference room. But I think our friends down the street at the Point Shirley Association would be the next best step.
Now to my first assessment:
“E18: Tech Support” by Tech Support.
A film that helped launch the “new cinema.” A powerful documentary style advert, illumining potential clients to an exclusive walking-tour service. “The Urban Walk Society” has still to find its legs but the idea is a fascinating one. Some great shots of the city and the harbour and glimpses into another time and The Great Hall Allston. Sadly, we couldn’t always hear what the host was saying, but the riveting score kept us galvanized to the plight. Due to copyright issues this can’t be on youtube. My blog sometimes plays video, this seems hung up. So, if you didn’t see it the other night it’ll be 15 years or so until it’s unearthed.
Why it should win: breakthrough cinema and brilliant idea brought to life. A stunning journey through the city. The “de – liv – er – ence” joke at the end …
Why it should not win: too much copyrighted music. Inaudiblity issues. Low on horror.
“The Gourmand Society” by Vlindinhauer Haverhast.
One of the heavy hitters of the night. Miraculously filmed in one night with a stellar cast. This is the start of a series I wish to continue, “The Next Nightmare,” combining theatre and cinema to make the peak horror delivery system.
Why it should win: Every performer in this film should be eligible for something. The life breathed into the powerful libretto was inspired. A fascinating collection of characters in an outrageous, yet plausible, scenario gives one pause: what have I got myself into? The final improvised speech of Joost Pentacles (played by Dr Vodka) was one of my favourite parts of the evening.
Why it should not win: We learned a lot in the filming and production of last year’s “The Two Goofs.” We learned a few more things with this one. Although everything was filmed, it needs to be filmed better.
“Thoreau Burrows – Episode IV: The Friends of Woodsman Coyle” by Wilhem Van Benker
The first offering from last years “Honourable Mention” winner and the first “historical fiction” to make its way to our screen. Beautifully shot with exquisite costuming, one felt transported to another time. A lovely, yet haunting original score helped deliver us to this unknown world of HDT.
Why it should win: That opening shot of HDT, neck deep in Walden …. stunning! The commitment to style, form, and vision was unparalleled. The title graphic alone is a winner! A brave choice of subject matter and scenario, the likes of which have never been seen. I do hope this is just the start of this phenomenon.
Why it should not win: Although it did suffer from uneven sound issues, at no point did we wonder what was being said. All the films have sound issues. But sometimes one wonders “what the hell is going on?!” … or something like that. Perhaps as more episodes come in the pieces will fall together. I think if the “Transcenders Meeting House” sign was affixed to the door it would’ve made a more powerful impression, but I guess we can’t go around affixing signs on historic landmarks ….
“Sea Virus: Pilot” from Herr O
This loooong awaited project has a long history with us. A few years back, O delivered a very short trailer. Finally, something we can sink our teeth into. I grew nostalgic for the times of driving around listening to crazy people talking on the radio. The “news” we were hearing seemed quite in tune with our times, and the ability to get the President to appear (in voice) is quite remarkable.
Why it should win: The voice of the president and the vomit scene of Professor Held were exceptional. The score was good as well.
Why it should not win: I think it needed another pass or two with the edit, and the end was quite abrupt. Many folks have written about time restraints, that doesn’t get one off the hook. I look forward to what happens beyond the pilot of this fascinating idea.
“Chapter 0: Invocation” by Balthazar Blümp (King of Witches)
The second debut of the night was, I daresay, the most entertaining film of the evening. A fantastic silent movie style journey of magick, nature, conjuring and Bear the dog. Steeped in ritual and tradition we follow this magician as he surmounts all these obstacles to put a spell together when: reality hits: it’s raining and his car window is open. Moreover, he’s received a parking ticket. Womp, womp.
Why it should win: Bear (I could just stop there). The look and feel of this film was enthralling. It was such a delight to behold. And just when it’s getting too whimsical we get dog defecation and a fine thorn injury. It seemed “from another time” when suddenly, the veil gives way, and we are in modern day East Boston. Magick. (Plus the end credits are fn hilarious!)
Why it should not win: The perfect score from “The Enchanted Garden” of John Rebourn. It was perfect, but, we are continually striving for as much originality as possible. Sound bytes, free loops, a little bit of incidental music in public, and sound effects are fine. Scores from masters may elevate beyond our providence. Moreover, it get’s dicey is it “goes public”. I do hope we see more Chapters from the King of Witches …
“A Disappointment” by Tech Support
The first presentation since winning the first Haverhast from Tech Support. Although seen many years ago, this “new” version has never been seen on an Extensions night. And no one really remembered seeing it before. A grim docudrama of a visit to the house of Michael Collins to play the Circle Game on the eve of Independence Day 2005.
Why it should win: Although many of the films featured a variety of disturbing sight gags (eg: “Alpha Beta Die”), this film was actually disturbing.
Why it should not win: Although many of the films featured a variety of disturbing sight gags (eg: “Alpha Beta Die”), this film was actually disturbing.
“Year’s End” by Persephone Haverhast
Two time Haverhast winner, Persephone Haverhast, delivers her obligatory Haverhast film. The time has come, the year is up, time to return the award …. and all it’s perks!
Why it should win: A grim reminder that even the best roller coaster ride must end. Film featured some fantastic location shots and a balloon arch.
Why it should not win: Although many of the films came together rather quickly near the deadline, the second half of the film really felt very rushed.
“The Connection” by Chip Lloyd Adderson and Maria Lopez
The third debut of the evening, and perhaps, the most serious film of the night. Not afraid to delve into the murky waters of relationship, we see an exploration of the horrors of mediocrity. Are we living our best lives posting on Instagram? Are we not smelling the roses? Are we missing silent cues from our partners? Are we just pretentious snobs and there’s nothing wrong with checking for “likes”? It goes on and on …
Why it should win: Very well filmed with an impeccable,yet sparse, score. The sobriety of the film, in stark contrast with the rest of the evening’s programme was particularly alarming. Although a serious affair, it did not seem out of place. I do hope we see more from this team.
Why it should not win: Not convinced that Chip didn’t just film his reality without telling Maria …
“Art Prison” a Smart Film
A second to last minute entree from Haverhast and Honourable Mention winning Smart, we see a retired man transitioning to his new life. Some obstacles are in the way, and continue to be …
Why it should win: The clear “Smart Film” style I find haunting and captivating. His delivery of the seemingly innocuous -yet-absurd lines is brilliant. A retired artist of prison portraits??? The music was simply beautiful too.
Why it should not win: It’s always good to have them yearning for more. I could’ve gone for another half hour of this guy’s plight …
“Biography Briefs: Dwayne and Wayne” by JML
This last minute and actual surprise delight was a secret entry to serve as a sort of lead in for “Alpha Beta Die”. We are introduced to identical twins Dwayne and Wayne and some of the trials and tribulations of their years leading to their triumphant acceptance at Whittendale College.
Why it should win: A perfectly executed TV bio style short. Hilarious, profound and concise.
Why it should not win: Maybe it should win. It was perfectly executed. Perhaps it’s too much in the shadow of the film it prefaces …
“Alpha Beta Die” by Frank Squared
The Haverhast winning powerhouse are always a force to reckon with. This second heavy hitter of the night had high expectations due to the triumph and reputation of last year’s “Appendage.” As ever, pushing the envelope of taste and reason, this journey of initiation and “growing up” was a lewd and, at times, disgusting, tour de force. Not only revolting, but bloody and violent. Much of what we seek in horror, yes?
Why it should win: As ever, the work that Frank M puts into his visual is noteworthy. The mask he created wins the night alone! The cast was really good, especially Frank Sr. I must admit, the Dean character I played was well framed too. It’s fantastic that Frank is not afraid to take us to places most people wouldn’t even know about (elephant walk anyone?).
Why it should not win: It was a good time movie, not without its subtlety. I do feel as though it needed another pass or two at the editors booth.
“Pathway to Paracelsus I”
Featuring many of the in camera movies created by “DJ M and the F Jam”, this film, like last year’s “The Jewelry Box of Vlindinhauer Haverhast” is best seen as a dessert of the evening and a way to cleanse the palette too.
Why it should win: The Christmas sequence and the scene with my brother at the hospital.
Why it should not win: Celebrating my 50th with a whopper …
II
From Wilhem Van Benker
E18: Tech Support – A great look back into Tech Support’s vault. This Walking Tour puts a magnifying glass to the seemingly inescapable tourism industry that permeates every street corner of Boston. And yet, I find myself longing for a Heineken and a ferry ride.
The Art Prison – Another cerebral philosophy in the works of Smart. Year after year I get another glimpse into a labyrinth of questions and potential answers. All of which are both enjoyable and ruminative. A pillar of Extensions Saturday.
E18 tech support: I have a love of the old work. especially filmed on VHS, there’s something unique about the early 2000s that the technology applies but for some reason makes me want more. The visual grit of old and the visual crisp of new have me wanting some sort of visual enhancements. The story of urban walk society is always a great idea and I’m sold! Maybe a reshoot with the new technology.
The Gourmand Society: the best dialogue of the evening and great casting! A blast to watch and the quick cut editing is my favorite part. The end dialogue with me creeped me out a little too much. I’m interested in learning more of these characters.
Thoreau Burrows – Episode IV: The Friends of Woodsman Coyle: Another surprise and a beautiful one at that, I’ve worked with Wilhelm in the past and love his use of visual shots, and props. The story seemed to be very refreshing in the otherwise horror event. After rewatch I keep feeling cleansed by this film!
Sea virus: pilot: for years I’ve waited and this delivered, the scenic drive and audio worked perfectly and seemed to flow beautifully without feeling long. As always relevant a good jab at the president is a good laugh for me! The film felt like a welcome friend in the night, with a bit of schlock horror and great at that I enjoyed this film a lot. The sudden ending almost reminded me of being hung up on though like I did something wrong for watching.
Chapter 0: invocation: another surprise and delight, the film was an over the top success, from the beautiful shots in the laboratory, to the wondrous old world! Great use of animal props maybe bear receives a nomination! As mentioned I would like an original score, and though I laughed the whole time during the end credits I almost wish it was another film all together.
A disappointment: a gritty film that brings you deep into the past. As always I get stoked to hear talk of the circle game, and love the archival footage. As others have mentioned it seemed to come off as mean spirited, I know it’s not it’s intent but even my wife had to stop the film half way through because it seemed to just be picking on someone she doesn’t know.
Years end: as is tradition another great film using the haverhast! I can’t help but feel I missed out on the perks of the haverhast in fact if I ever win again I better have steak in first class!!!!!
The Connection: the horrors of the mundane are sometimes the scariest! The bleak realistic feeling had me wondering where it will go from here! What was he thinking in that last scene!!! Should we call the authorities!!!!!
Art Prison: as always smart delivers a beautiful short film, just too short.. I wish we could see more of his life’s changes since leaving art prison, and why the knife and gun! Visually stunning. The audio haunting. Always a pleasure.
Biography briefs: Dwayne and Wayne:
A surprise and what a surprise I was in fact emotionally teary eyed while watching this one. Capturing a bit of reality of the frank squared relationship and transcending it to the brother-ship of Dwayne and Wayne made me want to strive to be a better brother and find out what’s bugging Wayne.
Alpha Beta Die: as always a pusher for the extreme I think we achieved it, but now that I see what the others brought to the table I can’t help but wonder what lies on the horizon for frank squared and crew.
Pathway to Paracelsus I: another good time like the jewelry box the shorts are always an amazing way to end the night. Also maybe some of the creepiest and horrific moments were in the film, the new roommate, and the lost call, who was on the other line!!!
E18: Tech Support
The 18th installment of the Extensions series begins with raw footage of DJM walking from 30 Allston to the Long Wharf in Boston. Seemingly not in his Extensions “character”, Derek makes his way to a ferry that takes him on the high seas where he says he’s headed toward Quincy. The film abruptly changes to footage of Dave and Josh observing DJM, who is now cutting a customer’s hair at the Stephan Coiffeur salon on Newbury Street. Another abrupt cut to 30 Allston Street for more raw footage. Another quick cut to video of a video of Opeth performing live. As a fan of Extensions, I attempted to make sense of the film and its place in the series. I have still been unable to come to any conclusions, other than perhaps it was the director’s intent that the last installment might serve as a total deconstruction of the format…
Vlindinhauer Haverhast – The Gourmand Society
I may be a bit biased on this, having been a part of the cast, but I feel this was the strongest entry of the evening. A macabre tale with a plot unfolds like a fine seven course dinner, gradually hinting along the way at the horrific reality of what we the viewer has been digesting from the start. Having been present at the filming, I can attest that the editing done post-shoot must have been taxing. I wasn’t sure how it would all come together, but Vlindinhauer Haverhast took the night’s footage and assembled a cohesive and impressive work of horror art. Great script, strong cast, and effective soundtrack as well. My choice for the Haverhast Award.
William Van Benker – Thoreau Burrows: Episode IV: The Friends Of Woodsman Coyle
The first of the new cinematic voices of the evening. An “historical fiction” work that contained some very fine cinematography with it’s authentic settings and bucolic landscapes. While I’m not sure I entirely understood the narrative, the dream-like editing and fragmented dialogue kept me in an off-kilter state of pleasant confusion. Probably close to what the main character may have experienced being out in “the wood” for so long. The night shots were exquisite. Special nod to Vlindinhauer’s performance in the work.
Herr O – Sea Virus (Pilot)
Glad to see Mark finally set sail with his much-promoted film. The use of talk radio to convey the storyline was effective and it was good to see son Liam back on the big screen. The quaint town of Duxbury was a fine seaside setting. As with the previous feature, I wasn’t exactly clear on the plot (perhaps it’s time for a checkup), but I did like the John Carpenter-like atmosphere and the grand finale was certainly intense.
Balthezar Blump (King Of Witches) – Chapter 0: Invocation
A favorite of mine from the evening’s programme. Clever use of lighting, camera trickery, and authentic sets all contributed to a fine psychedelic poem of a film. I also appreciated the use of an animal as one of the main characters, very convincing performance by “Bear”. Soundtrack was also well chosen. One possible gripe would be the graphic depiction of poor Bear’s excretion (a personal opinion), but it did get a laugh from the in house audience. The film lulled the viewer into it’s dreamy atmosphere before suddenly plunging us into its present day setting, making the last laugh that much more enjoyable. Excellent first time entry by Balthezar!
Josh Bryan – A Disappointment
The first of the evening’s controversial films, in my opinion. Footage of DJM going to visit a long lost friend ended up feeling a bit exploitative during the Event’s in house telecast, to be honest. I think had the viewing audience been more familiar with the subject, it would’ve gone over differently. But it was good to see some unearthed video from years ago, as well as a new entry by a previous Haverhast winner.
Persephone Haverhast – Year’s End
The “two time Haverhast winner” returns with a film that was “obligatory” but felt more personal and . The viewer was treated to an insider’s look at all the benefits of winning a coveted Haverhast, but also the tragedy when one has to turn in the award (and benefits) at the “Year’s End”. Some clever puppetry once again employed by Persephone conveys the gutted emotion of giving up the award. But the film ends on an ominous high note as the director promises a triumph with her next work…
Chip Lloyd Adderson and Maria Lopez – The Connection
More new cinematic voices, this time offering us a timely cautionary tale of technological dependance. Interesting to note the film was seemingly made on the very device they were warning us against. A warning within a warning perhaps.
David Smart – Art Prison
The enigmatic film director returns with a short about the nature of moving as well as carrying on with life after finishing an extended sentence in an Art Prison. The items shown when “packing” made for a humorous sequence and the “NPG” joke was a nice lol moment. I wish we got to see a bit more of the dramatic landscapes, very Kubrick-esque. I believe the viewer gets a glimpse of Mr Smart’s new living quarters before plunging us back into the same setting as the opening sequence, a cramped office space. Is this the return to the Art Prison, or is one never really free from it? A fine “surprise” entry.
JML – Biography Briefs: Dwayne & Wayne
Another favorite, a biography on the trials and tribulations of identical twins. Basically a cinematic slideshow, but what made it rise above was the soothing soundtrack matched with an otherworldly narrative voice that conveyed the struggles so many identical brothers can often go through. But did the film have a double meaning, was it actually trying to get the actors portraying Dwayne & Wayne back together in real life after some unknown real-life friendship trauma? One can only guess.
F2 – Alpha Beta Die
A new film from Frank is always met with equal parts of great expectations and dread. He always manages to capture the glory of the classic 80s sci-fi horror genre with consummate skill but often goes for “envelope pushing”. The creature effects were impressive, as always, and the kill scenes were cleverly done. If I were being brutally honest, I probably could’ve done with a lot less of the “scat” and homophilic humor. That might just be a personal preference or perhaps even a generational thing, as most of the audience present at the Event were clearly reacting positively to both. Perhaps the work was a bit overly long as well? But a solid script and some great performances from all the actors, with a special nod to Frank Mulone Sr. Another “solid” entry by F2. My pick for The Saint’s Choice Award.
DJM – The Pathway To Paracelsus I
The Host returns with a video anthology “palette cleanser”, featuring various film “skits” to help assuage any ill feelings from the previous works. “The Banana” being my favorite of the lot. Some might call this entry “Frank’s Sizzle Reel”. I do have to say the feeling of exploitation arose once again during the “New Room Mate” segment, but perhaps this “shock and awe” vibe that certain films had this Extensions Saturday is just the direction the new cinema is headed…
V
From G
Regarding E34
As you know – I am mostly a spectator.
I will occasionally be involved with a film.
Nuances of lighting, sound, editing sometimes are lost on me.
So my feedback is purely from an Entertainment point of view.
In general the films of the night were all of good quality and showed a high level of effort and creativity. Certainly the amount of content is as high as it has ever been.
Although enjoyable, some of the submissions were a little too artsy or serious for me. Based on the crowd reaction I suspect I am in the minority with this view.
To quote Derek Smalls – “there is a fine line between clever and stupid”. I tend to like films that walk this line.
My top 3 “favorites” of the night:
#3 Year’s End – I enjoy Persephone’s films as they often contain clever story elements and don’t typically take themselves too seriously.
#2 The Gourmand Society – I can appreciate the effort with this undertaking – a larger cast, lots of editing and a good story with horror elements. The cast performances were among the best of the night and perhaps in several years.
#1 Biography Briefs – Clever, Funny and well produced – packed a lot of punch in 3 and a half minutes. Walked the line perfectly.
G
VI
Derek Curly
E: 18: Tech Support:
This Extensions film was a welcome blast from the past featuring a silly through line about the 89.99 deal. I enjoyed the journey down Comm Ave, as it is a walk I had made countless times both back in 2003, and continue to make monthly to this very day. It was interesting to see how much has changed, and how much has NOT changed, in 15 years. This did not feel long, and was well-paced despite being low on plot or action. A nice way to settle into the evening.
The Gourmand Society:
As the story progresses the audience is slowly clued in to what is really going on: reincarnation by way of cannibalism. This is a clever spin on that barbaric notion, and one done with enough self-aware humor that it is perfectly balanced between completely inane and utterly important. I was particularly taken with the performances of Persephone Haverhast and Mr Y, who did much of the heavy lifting, especially early on. The sound effects (coins falling from the hat, random percussion and cymbals, the cheer at the pronouncement of the title of the piece) helped lend to this feature an air of late-night bizarro comedy ala Tim and Eric or Eric Andre. The final reveal of the Gourmand Society’s playbook was particularly unsettling and well-written.
Thoreau Burrows:
Beautiful acting, cinematography, and costume design transport the viewer to another time and place. Clever set pieces (the projection behind the giant letter digging scene; the blowing notes; the bird POV) put on full display the no-budget ingenuity of the filmmaker. The first lines, “You’ll pardon some obscurities, for there are more secrets in my trade than in most men’s” serves as a sort of apologia to the rest of the short, as the plot often comes in and out of focus. Even still, there are moments of pure genius (the multi-voice sequence wondering about what Henry does in the woods, including the voice talents of some current Walden staff, several different voices put on by Sir Wilhelm himself, plus a throwback to the chirping cardinal; the conversation in the cabin with Henry and Margaret), and every performance is incredibly well done. The pathos and humor are inspiring, and with one more pass in the editing room this short may become a triumph of historical fiction and period filmmaking.
Sea Virus: Pilot
This film abides by the KISS principle (Keep It Simple Stupid), and does so very well. The mundane hilarity of driving and listening to the radio- particularly in our current political climate- felt real. My innate interest in UFOs was piqued. My inane interest in our popular news cycle was also piqued, and I was impressed with the voice impersonations of our alleged officials. Dr Held’s performance lent an air of explicit sci-fi, and the finale, albeit sudden, was perfectly schlocky, featuring impeccable line delivery and gnarly makeup effects, leaving me wanting more.
The Wicked Witch of East Boston, Chapter 0: Invocation:
This short was shot entirely on location in East Boston between Sept 18 and Nov 21 using only our cellphones. All of the effects were done live in-camera with the exception of the Sunflower fade, which was augmented in the editing room. The Primary location was my house on Byron & Cowper st, where I shot the alchemy lair, the cobblestone pathways, the magical sunflower growth (which was an interior shot completed using the planter for a large indoor tree), some expressive closeups, and the final reveal (that is my real car, in its regular parking spot, where I have been erroneously issued several parking tickets throughout the years). Many travel scenes were shot just down Bennington Street at Belle Isle Marsh where we sometimes take the dogs for a walk. William and I shot the thorn sequence and the snow sequence in the same day– the thorns were shot in an empty wooded lot at the end of Short and Coleridge St, adjacent to the East Boston Greenway Connector, and the snow was shot 3 blocks away at the Porrazzo hockey rink, using the pile of zamboni snow as our setting. On the day of the thorn sequence, William and I were walking down Coleridge street- he in his normie street wear, and I clad in my Witch’s robe, barefoot, bearing a lantern and a staff– when we were spotted by none other than William’s own mother, sister, and nephew, who texted William asking “We just saw you walking down the street in East Boston… why is Derek dressed like a wizard?” I’d had several silly runins with neighbors while dressed this way, often telling them to “pay no heed to the man wearing a robe past halloween.” Street filmmaking at its finest.
Working with Bear was a delight. 10/10 would recommend.
A Disappointment:
This film was an interesting case study of three friends. I honestly wish we got to see more of Colin. Some people during the showing felt this was exploitative, however from my perspective- not knowing much about the individuals involved- this felt like the accurate capture of a particular moment in time. Somehow the 15 minute run-time went by more quickly than it could have, particularly on the heels of a trio of shorter entries. I wanted to see more of that spectral figure; the scene of the empty chair with “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” playing, inevitably to be filled by that man, made me feel all kinds of strange emotions- sadness, wonder, grief, anxiety, guilt, curiosity. The opening of his fridge was also particularly painful. I kinda wanted to hug that man.
Year’s End:
As delightful as Persephone’s personage often is, this short felt rushed, but maybe for a particular meta-reason. There was clever use of what was available to Mme Haverhast- a flight, and the first class. The line “It’s gone, It’s over. I- I gotta make some phone calls.” when she leaves City Hall is also pretty clever. The self-awareness on Mme Haverhast’s part- that the possibility of a repeat Haverhast award is difficult, nigh on impossible- serves the narrative well. The puppets were also great.
Favorite lines: “Not My Preferred Status. “You’re no longer Preferred.”
& “Not my Library Card” “Revoked.”
& “If it weren’t for me you’d be part of some sort of stupid Amish fall display at a senior center welcome foyer… in Idaho, but instead you’re a star!”
The Connection:
Simple, relevant, ironic. The performances felt real. All around subtle and important filmmaking. I honestly was not suspecting such a serious and well-done chobani advertisement. In all seriousness though, this may be the unsung hero in this collection, and my choice for the Saint’s award!
Art Prison:
I was a big fan of last year’s entries by Mr Smart, and was looking forward to this year’s. Art Prison was a more direct, underplayed entry, but not one devoid of merit. The central one-shot featuring voice overs and Prince jokes was nicely done- a fine example of simple filmmaking. The travel shots were incredible- of these I wanted more. The song at 4:10 by American’s on Acid has been stuck in my head- this is the best original song featured in this year’s lineup. My favorite part of this film, however, is the reveal of the tiny cloffice at the end.
Biography Briefs:
Hahaha! This is just great. The self-aware voice-over, the clever use of facebook pictures, and the expert exploitation of the biography format lent this satire the gravitas required to pre-empt the sensual onslaught that was to come with F2’s latest film, Alpha Beta Die. As someone who’s been around both Franks for many years now, this film stands alone as a welcome exposition to their relationship, and does not require the pairing of “Alpha Beta Die” to be fully enjoyed. That said, the payoff was made all the better for it. My choice for this year’s Haverhast!
Alpha Beta Die:
The film devolved from a fairly well constructed character setup to gross out film that upped the ante from last year’s entry “Appendage.” The first 7 minutes were really well done, and had all the makings of a legit Hollywood film. We get well carved out and nuanced characters (featuring hilarious performances, particularly by Ser Wilhelm Van Benkerstein “yea, I, uh, heh, uh, I had a beer”) in this near perfect setup (and a perfect sendup) of college coming of age films. By the time the shit hits the plate, however, the laughs start to die off. I get what F2 was going for, and perhaps that’s the point- this shit ain’t no laughing matter.
I was frankly disturbed and upset by this film, mostly because of how uncomfortable my own portrayal of Brad Kavanaughty made me feel. I get that this film tried to say something about bro culture and toxic masculinity- Frank M’s distressed statement “I just wanted to be in the frat” fits nicely. The fact that this film was completely devoid of women may be part of that statement (Jeanne and Holly did help during production, though).The creature at the 20 minute mark is definitely worth the price of watching the middle 13 minutes, and are perhaps the best Frank M has thus far created; that thing was as unsettling as the rest of the film. The ending was a major downer, but Frank Sr’s hilarious delivery at the end brought back some welcome levity (“I knew the Idiot would [die], but I didn’t expect the Good Guy!”).
Pathway to Paracelsus I:
This film brought us back to some semblance of terra firma, but not without some tricks. All in all, this felt like a more subdued “Jackass” type skit-collection. High notes for me: the road work (i thought that was just really cool to see, thank you for documenting that); the banana (made me teehee); the ghost of the red line; Captain Cat Engaged; and The New Roommate (which in my opinion was the most hilarious skit of the evening!). Ultimately, this feels like something one would accidentally catch on Adult Swim at 3AM, and for which one would be all the better for having witnessed it. I’m glad to have seen it at 11:30 PM on Extensions Saturday.
Thank you for inviting me to participate!
-DTC
VII
Visitor Blim
E 18: Tech Support
Ah yes, the first official film of “the new cinema”. What is there to say about this one? I had almost forgotten about the Urban Walk Society. Perhaps it’s time for a reboot of that pursuit. Might be due a renaissance in the coming year? Unfortunately due to copyright issues this video was not available for further viewing. Guess I’ll have to wait another 15 years for a proper viewing. I do remember E18 being a bit of a controversial film at the time of its release. I remember struggling to understand how exactly this film fit into the pantheon of previous Extensions films. Perhaps it was a transitional piece as we entered a new era…
The Gourmand Society
Great script and strong acting throughout this one. A rather macabre tale with the big plot twist being that the society practices cannibalism! This one was certainly chalk full of horror which I enjoyed. Perhaps it could have used some further editing, but alas we are all under time constraints these days. It will be interesting to see further “nightmares” in this series to learn more about the characters in this society.
Thoreau Burrows
I enjoyed it as a work of historical fiction. Cinematography and period costumes were top notch. It was a bit surreal at times so I was left a bit confused. Overall I enjoyed this piece. Just still trying to decipher some of the “hidden meaning” maybe. A strong debut even if it was a little bit confusing to me. Certainly enjoyable to watch. A great debut film. Looking forward to more by Mr Van Benker.
Sea Virus: Pilot
Psychological terror. Great editing. Enjoyed the intriguing story and build up. Yes it did have an abrupt ending. However, the title did indicate it was “episode one”. Hopefully there will be a sequel to help explain what the hell is going on…
Balthezar Blump (King Of Witches) – Chapter 0: Invocation
This film was entertaining and I enjoyed the way it was filmed and edited. As someone else mentioned, I too felt like the end credits were almost another film altogether. A very good debut. I’m looking forward to seeing more. This was one of my favorites of the evening.
A Disappointment
More “new cinema” from the mid 2000’s. This one had a bit of a “found footage” feel to it. Some suggested it might have been a bit “mean spirited”. In a way maybe a bit of a companion piece to E18. These sort of documentary style films were popular at the beginning of the “new cinema” era of the previous decade.
Year’s End
The follow-up from last year’s Haverhast winner. It satisfied all the prerequisites required of a Haverhast award winner. Great use of the Haverhast award. I enjoyed seeing some of the “star characters” from last year’s film again.
The Connection
I had a sense of foreboding that something bad was going to happen to this couple. Is there going to be some sort of horror element at the end? However, I felt a real sense of sadness at the conclusion. Was it a connection missed or lost? A modern day commentary on the current human condition perhaps? In a night of debuts, another solid entry.
Alpha Beta Die
Where to start? Another shock-fest from Frank Squared. “Buts, Beers, Broads”. As I watched the first half of the film I thought to myself that this film had solid Haverhast potential. Then I tried not vomiting over the course of the second act. I did enjoy the special effects especially the kill scenes. Perhaps a bit too much “toilet humor” for my taste…
The Path to Paracelsus I
This was a collection of “skits” from the Host. A “palate cleanser” so to speak. Good for some laughs.
Art Prison
This film was a pleasant “surprise”. The way the claustrophobia of the “office” is portrayed was very effective. It certainly conveys a sense of being in prison. I really enjoyed the way this one was filmed and top notch film editing as always. At this point, one almost expects a high quality product from Smart Film productions, and this film was no disappointment.
Biography Briefs: Dwayne and Wayne”
The briefest entry of the program and possibly the highlight of the night? Another “pleasant surprise” entry. Very well done. From what I understand it was a real crowd pleaser to. Clever, succinct, humorous. What more is there to say?
VIII
Persephone Haverhast
E18: Tech Support – It’s amazing to see some of the roots of the New Cinema appearing. And yet, still with one foot solidly in the “Old Cinema” style. It was nice to see the changes over the years in terms of locations and friends. But this was still firmly rooted in the past with only glimpses of what was to come.
The Gourmand Society – What a fun ensemble piece. I think this film was a more successful blend of the old Extension style and the New Cinema. His great innovation with the editing, I’m going to call it Jump Line, allows VH to have large ensemble casts without putting undue burden on anyone to learn lines. While we’d all love to have time to perfectly craft our art, it’s not easy with all the demands of careers, family, and life. That being said, I challenge VH to think outside the studio a little. Some of the strongest submissions have all had location shoots which add so much to the atmosphere of the film.
Thoreau Burrows – Which brings me directly to the strengths of Thoreau Burrows. This film would not have worked nearly as well if it hadn’t been shot on location. I loved the locations, the music, the costumes, the historical research and the dream like quality of the film as a whole. I do wonder if this needed a bit more help for the audience to catch all the concepts, history, and ideas the filmmaker intended.
Sea Virus – Another film that was rooted in the Extensions past while still firmly planted in the style of the New Cinema. I felt it was a good start in terms of exposition and set up for a longer film. I eagerly anticipate the next episode and want to see what happens next in this world.
Chapter 0: Invocation – What a charmer! Bear for Honorable Mention. I liked the blend of silent film and then the shift into a modern view of life and the little aggravations in the city. It was well actualized and I wanted to spend more time with these characters. I know there have been some issues raised with non-original music, but that didn’t bother me. I think this is a great first submission from a newcomer I look forward to seeing more from in the future.
A Disappointment – Okay….. Nice to see some footage from the past. And I can see where some folks felt this was exploitative. It’s hard to know what Mr Collins would be feeling about this view into his life.
Year’s End – Definitely the obligatory Haverhast submission. Just didn’t have time to do it right with the job hunt and everything. That being said, I’m not sure how different it would have actually been. I wanted to have fun and process some of my sadness connected with the end of my contract in life with the end of the Haverhast year.
The Connection – This was a real surprise for me. I wasn’t expecting a film that is so far outside the Extensions traditional style. I enjoyed the cinema verite style. The theme and questions the film raises are not especially original, but expression of these themes in this setting is new and fresh. I always want to recognize other females in our circle who make significant contributions to the submissions. A quiet film, but one that stays with you.
Art Prison – I suspect a lot of films this year have been exploring themes in the filmmakers’ own lives. Job changes, life changes, moves, etc. Leaving a prison and going to what we all hope is not a new prison. But who knows. As always, Smart films are loaded with hazy images of light and wonder, hazy music with a subtle edge. His films are like a cup of green tea in a zen garden on a moonlit night.
Biography Briefs: Dwayne & Wayne – Another female led film. Another charmer. I think the humor and warmth of this film was just what we needed before Alpha Beta Die. I heard lots of warm chuckles and hums of appreciation from the audience members, but I don’t think it was for Dwayne and Wayne but for Frank and Frank.
Alpha Beta Die – If Smart films are a cup of tea in a zen garden, F2 films are a tequila shot in a Reno strip club. Amazing creature work. And over the top scenarios. Definitely buttons were pressed, envelopes were pushed, boxes were outside of, triggers were triggered. Clever and twisted. But not comfortable.
The Pathway to Paracelsus I – Just what we needed. Really enjoyed the collection of shorts.
IX
HERR O
E18: Tech Support – the triumphant walking tours through Boston are both entertaining and historical with our intrepid host. A film that revels in going absolutely nowhere, it is a comforting trip down memory lane.
The Gourmand Society: A fantastic ensemble cast delivers DJM another two thumbs up performance, putting a new spin on an old tale.
Mr Y’s performance as the host was Saint Award worthy.
Thoreau Burrows – Episode 4: The Friends of Woodsman Coyle:
Wilhelm delivers a fine performance in this period piece from another era. The costumes are wonderful. It had an interesting look and feel to it.
Chapter 0: Invocation. The outlier of the night-
This had a real “this is my final project from Mass Art feel to it”. A great look and tempo, lots of time and effort went into this one. A Superior effort from the new wunderkind Balthezar Blümp.
The Disappointment:
an exploitive, disturbing look at a few hours in the life of Mike Collins. The Circle Game, taken on the road to liberate the hopeless and exult in the good times, backfires in this disaster of good intentions. One night in the life of a man whose life is a slow, abysmal spiral towards despair is a good enough reason to shelve the film for a decade. There’s a good reason why many people felt disgusted after watching this – The night’s anti feel good film gets two thumbs up for bravery in film making.
Years’s End:
Watching this film, I felt like we were waiting for Marisa to miss her flight in an effort to fulfill the Haverhast obligation. A lament on loss turns ever hopeful towards next year.
The Connection: A slow moving PSA on how even the closest of couples can heap neglect and alienation upon each other with zero self awareness. Someday the bots will review this little movie and shed a baby AI tear.
Art Prison.
Right away, you are aware of a Smart film – Everything about it is just right – the look , the sound – and especially the music. I enjoyed the banter between the main character and the girl asking the questions.
Wayne and Dwayne:
Surprise sleeper hit of the night, beautifully explains the unique “identical twins” friendship between the two Franks. Two thumbs up for the creative use of old photographs and reconstructing memories.
Alpha Beta Die:
All the pieces were in place for the Franks to take to the Haverhast this year with their exuberant tale of the legacy fraternity gone bad. There seems to be a maximum effort by the film makers to shock each other, themselves or the audience, especially in the shit -eating and baby elephant walk scenes. With more reflection, Sometimes less is more. The frat party scene is highly disturbing in its use of odd characters and music – reminded me a little of boogie nights. The ability of the supporting cast to “act” and simultaneously party eventually falls apart, which is always a hazard during production.
Pathway to Paracelsus 1.
This zany collection of shorts by the summertime fun duo of DJM and Beachmont Frank (plus special guests) thrills us at every turn with new tricks and funny delights. Much of it slapstick and stooge like, it was a comedic breath of fresh air. I have great difficulty making the leap from this video circus to The Robert Browning reading, which thematically, felt like an entirely different endeavor
X
SMART
The Gourmand Society: An ambitious exploration of the hidden connection between cannibalism and the good life, because we’ve all wondered. A story shaped like an eternal downward funnel, and the casting, my god, so many heavy hitters. This film caused my wealth to triple itself ten times, and again. Me? I like to keep it all on the up and up. One of my favorites of the night.
Thoreau Burrows: Newness! A mature forest chamber piece of some uncertain madness. A pleasant showing from The Host. What’s real? The thespianism and visual tone are real. My version came with an extra minute of black silence at the end. Those Transcenders were on to something.
Sea Virus: Solid sound design. The radio was nice. A welcome foray into science fiction, improbably climaxing in forced-fellatio cephalopod porn. Some quietly intense performances. Probably the best (and thankfully the only) Trump impersonation of the night.
Chapter 0: Invocation: The palette broadens. Wacky adventures of a would-be necromancer (Chaplain’s Tramp meets the Hermit from the inner sleeve of Zeppelin IV) and his probably too-loyal dog. A live-action Davey and Goliath brought to you by a sect of Lutheran warlocks, with title cards. Who wouldn’t like this? There’s good lighting, a wince-inducing thorn injury, close-up canine scatological weirdness, and singed eyebrows. Loved it.
A Disappointment: True crime documentary cinema. Bleak shit. Probably experimental and uncompromising, but I can’t tell. We ride shotgun with the Urban Walk Society/IOFS as they use dialup, make a few phone calls, and eventually play the Circle Game on the Eve of Independence Day 2k5. “An extremely friendly situation,” indeed.
Year’s End: Double the Haverhasts means twice as far to fall, and Hell hath no fury like a woman whose gold, preferred status, and library cards have all been revoked. Fairweather desertion by her puppet friends is cruel icing on a giant Kübler-Rossian cake of loss. No longer preferred, lol. What does the Grand Chairman of the Haverhast Oversight Committee have to say about all this?
The Connection: A sober snapshot of the real life horrors of modern day technological alienation and weak smartphone passwords. A film about us all. Good dialog pacing. Tense ending, played both sinister and straight.
The Franks brought it. Alpha Beta Die is the uncanny fugue to Biography Briefs’ lovable prelude, and has my vote. A demented Afterschool Special about the virtues of conformity. If Leslie and Wayne (Dwayne?) had only gone along, everything would’ve worked out fine. Still, nothin’ a little beer can’t fix. Sure, there’s shit eating and regurgitation, castration by demon teeth, ripping out of tongues, and a perfect beer can money shot, but there’s also tension and release, beats within scenes, fun editing, music on point, and all that crosscutting. What are you, flexible?
Pathway to Paracelsus I: The new cinema evolves. Form is wrought from a series of mostly unrelated shorts by connecting them in fun ways, including some trippy wormholes. The overall effect is disorienting, comforting, hypnotic. Best wishes to Jim. Sounded like The Horrors and Second Edition PIL on the soundtrack.
The Tie: A Stevedore from The Bronx gets tangled in a web of his own design.
XI
C Z
If doing this Olympics style, alpha beta die had quite a bit horrible charm, gold. Your film featured excellent performances coaxed out by your diligent work in the directors chair, silver. Then I just really enjoy your German friend’s attitude. He takes bronze.
XII
A FEW WORDS FROM JANICE
A few words from Janice:
The Gourmand Society:
Fascinating!!! Easy to watch. Glad Captain Cat made the credit role!!
Thoreau Burrows:
Life without television or toilets – “This is what happens”
Invocation:
This was so great! I’m DISTRACTED by my cape!!!! Give it back!
Year’s End:
The next scene will have Persephone clutching a radish…….”As God Is My Witness – I will never be Haverhast-free again”
Sea Virus:
Best one yet!! Fast paced – great sound – vomit was borrowed from my morning sickness 50 years ago!
The Connection:
The most boring people – in their boring life!!!!
Prison Art:
(We watched together, lots of lols, and questions about locations and the past I couldn’t answer. She appeared to enjoy the work )
Biography Briefs:
OK. I cannot tell the twins apart!
Alpha Beta Die:
Better than Animal House
Paracelsus:
Best one yet. – OSCAR for JIM. Best supporting to Fitzy as Chuck Manson. Best feature to Smith/Christmas (Special Oscar to BMF)
XIII
Colin
1 ( “A dissapointment” – very well done.
2 ) “Sea Virus” — the “radio broadcast” at the beginning, was extremely funny, .
3 ) “Invocation” – nice Crowleyesque imagery.
4 ) “Art prison” – good use of music and good performance. Also, the line “sounds like an interesting guy, I’d love to meet him” was almost too funny ( & perfectly delivered ).
XIV
JOE
I’m late:
Jeans movie is #1
Bills is #2
Other Derek is #3
XV
BOB
Favorite films in no particular order:
1) The Invocation / Monty Python and the Holy Grail feel to it only not as slapstick
2) The Connection / bleak cinema verite
3) Gourmand Society / Great concept but could have been shorter and more to the point
4) Thoreau Burrows / Excellent locations and blurring of the historical with the modern
5) Alpha Beta Die / Gross out body horror but done well. A bit too long.
6) Sea Virus / good setup but abrupt ending
Didn’t get the point of Art Prison at all.
A Disappointment was uncomfortable to watch. Felt too personal/private
The rest didn’t really work for me.
****ADDENDUM:
Some great locations and costuming. Rod Serling, John Cassavetes, and David Cronenberg influences on display, which are good touchstones! For me, 15 —20 minutes is the ideal length, but if the story needs more or less time to tell then so be it. The Invocation gets big points for originality, as does Thoreau Burrows. The Connection was almost Bergmanesque in its bleakness. It felt like a documentary. (I hope it isn’t!) Alpha Beta Die is gonzo filmmaking at its best AND worst. 😉
Gourmand Society would have benefited from a less formulaic structure but it’s impressive for being filmed all in one go and with solid performances from the actors.
XVI
GLENN
I have no idea what this is or why I’m here, but my reflex is to mini-review the apparent entries in a movie making jam session marked by thematic touchstones of fraternal fright with a double dose of self-aware experimentation.
Bzzzzt!
e18: Tech Support:
(link broken)
The Gourmand Society
Excessive jump cuts and throwbacks to the lost art of the zoom lend formal familiarity to each scene of this macabre sketch piece. Delightful dread officiated by the standout Rhys Terrible looms over a mostly successful attempt marred by inconsistent lighting conditions and a general lack of certainty in performance. Frank Mulone’s spin on Monty Python’s Mr. Creosote proves essential to the feast, supported by digital and practical effects, but his character’s enthusiasm carries too heavy a load in making membership in the Gourmand Society appear desirable. Tangentially related success stories that no character directly attributes to their annual gathering of beef teriyaki with strangers followed by soups of mysterious tripe, aren’t enough to sell the elite entrapment hiding beneath.
Thoreau Burrows: Episode IV: The Friends of Woodsman Coyle
The environmental reverence of Terrence Malick on a sub-Sam Raimi budget affords this film a palpable sense of immersion, authenticated by one convincingly off balance Woodsman who exists questionably on the fringes of imagination. Though less care is taken in the framing and, quite notably, the audio dubbing of its cast, Burrows makes the most of smart location scouting, costume design, and consistency in color. With these considerations and some experience using a microphone in windy conditions, I consider this one my choice of the festival.
Sea Virus: Pilot
One long drive comprises half of this video in which we are saddled with someone’s impression of Alec Baldwin’s impression of Donald Trump. Making the common mistake of including turned on televisions and computer monitors in the mise en scene of a no budget flick, the presentation is otherwise unnatural in its harsh contrast of light and dark. The calamari came from space, but I was otherwise lost.
Chapter 0: Invocation…
A well conceived exercise in dark age cinematography surprises with a grounded goofball performance in silent cinema style. Though shot in color, Invocation recognizes what still works in traditionally black & white presentations, filtered through a 70s TV movie cheese. Owing perhaps too much to M. Night Shyamalan in one respect, and suffering from difficult to read typography in the text inserts, this one nevertheless works right up to the end credits, where disjointed theme music from The Office asserts itself, unwelcome.
A Disappointment
An archival revisit to video toaster editing and a Super VHS slinger’s imperative to shoot because he can. The novelty of camcorder ownership is a joy unknown to the Instagram generation, making such recordings indecipherable to the extraterrestrial mind. Frankly, it was probably also indecipherable the morning after it had been shot.
Year’s End
One woman’s full blown attack on modesty comes crashing down around her as all societal benefits, right down to the ownership of a personal library card, are inexplicably tied to an award that is unceremoniously revoked. Year’s End sails on a worthy performance, but its blown out lighting suggests little care for presentation. As an aside, I’ve recently wondered if the mug depicted may be the Haverhast award itself, but devoid of such context, I believed the protagonist had stolen it from a continental breakfast. It reappears without context in her possession on an airplane.
The Connection
The topical choice of soul sucking cell phone reliance drifts into the meta, as periodic glances to the camera by an insignificant other suggests he is recording the stagnation of his impaired relationship on a phone to be uploaded at a later date. This couple’s mundane wavering between “do nothing” and “maybe do something” is entirely effective in conveying the distance growing between them, but with no coverage of their better times to compare this to, we have little reason to hope for their relief.
Art Prison
With the expectation of fulfilling all needs art related without protest, a protagonist squeezes himself into an office to stare at a Macbook thinking about nature. These two images are not connected narratively, but are rather collected in expression of creative entrapment untethered to linear chronology. Art Prison benefits from good sound editing and pacing, weaving through its audio visual atmosphere of life left behind and promise of southwestern escapism. On a short runtime, however, it fails to stick any sort of landing. I’m undecided if I want more of it or more from it, as a result.
Dwayne & Wayne
A mocumentary of Bostonian bromance made unapologetically by and for the people on screen. Dwayne & Wayne provides at one point a hard sharp turn into darkness without piano accompaniment letting up for the shift. That may trigger a chuckle, but otherwise this felt like a movie made to be made, not seen.
Alpha Beta Die
Continuing the festival trend of dangerous society life, this time with a college fraternity, I couldn’t help but view Alpha Beta Die as a retexture of Appendage (if not the other way around), hitting all the same notes with overly familiar character types, locations, and plot turns. In the areas where it differs, I detect some steps forward and some steps back. The soundtrack overwhelms at times and, as entertaining as Frank’s knucklehead townie persona proves to be, this movie fails to develop character as efficiently. With that said, better visual effects and the humor of an offbeat butt touching montage serve to qualify Alpha Beta Die on its own merits.
Once upon a time, exiting a single screen film festival of ultra-low budget movies, a wise man once told me that what the concluded event had been missing was “a piss shit combo”.
ABD welcomes us halfway to where it needed to be.
The Pathway to Paracelsus I
A series of shorts that set the tone for the lineup as a whole, playing heavy on the Ocean’s Twelve charisma of a group of friends back for one more round of hijinks.
In the words of one of its smarter subjects: “It doesn’t matter what you bring to the table. What matters: what you bring to your friends.”
The Tie
The poor quality render of a darkened environment makes it unfortunately impossible to see what might have been an unshaved Sean Harris driving to a reception as his friend strangles himself to death.
XVIIa
TECH SUPPORT
This is what I have so far.. More to follow….
“E 18: Tech Support”
This film! Like most everything I take on single-handedly, the focus is always on some kind of abstraction of images or meaning, and less on plot or character development. Could be a bad sign for my “skills”… Or maybe it was just an excuse to synchronize Hitchcock film incedental soundtrack pieces with the new stuff I was filming at the time (late 2004). As others have noted, it doesn’t fit in whatsoever with the other Extensions films, but let’s be fair, as it’s not the first one. Indeed, after a viewing, this is one of those films that have people screaming for the way things “used to be”. And to that point, it being disjointed from the other films is likely a part of its intent, as it itself is really three short films athat as a whole film have almost nothing to do with each other, except for this urban walking guy who needs a better keyboard. What, you can’t “urban walk” to Microcenter?
“Thoreau Burrows: Episode IV” – William Van Benker
I liked where this film was going from the beginning, but I couldn’t keep the story straight due to its technical issues and the separated, disjointed dialog. Were the voice-overs executed because the filmmakers needed better microphone placement of the various exteriors or were they a deliberate effect, that almost pays homage to a more meditative style of filmmaking…? The film takes a bold step to provide its audience with stunning detail of this world (early 1800s New England?), but I was unable to find an empathetic connection to the protagonist. I actually wanted this film to be quite a bit longer, but not with so many jolting jump cuts or 180-degree rule violations. Not that I’m against those things, but there is a time and place – and the story needed to be in charge. Also, the cinematography is commendable and almost gets to where it needs to be…. But, I think I wanted more closeups as there were too many medium shots with not enough head room. Looking forward to more work from William Van Benker, and perhaps more exploration of this particular universe and its characters.
“Chapter 0: Invocation” – Balthazar Blümp (King of Witches)
Fair is foul, and so the air whence mine canine farteth verily. The only thing I would have held back on with “Chapter 0: Invocation” was the improvised defecation performed by newcomer “Bear”, although a necessary plot device. Perhaps a more discreet angle, for the moment is necessary for the story as an “explanation”? Otherwise, fully well-done. The locations, interior and exterior, and the retreat-back sequence, especially the thorny step – all very riveting and entertaining. Despite its use of famous quoteables (St. Francis of Assisi, Shakespeare) it was cartoonish at times, and hilariously performed by Derek Curly. The film wraps up by taking us into an all too familiar surrounding for a 21st century audience, as we are suddenly flung 500 years into the future, and dealing with the something that even a Satanic Dog Fart from the Depths of Hell has no affect upon: a parking ticket. Also, synchronizing action (and story) to a known piece of published music is a great filmic exercise, and not always an easy feat. Note its presence in the headliner film, E18: Tech Support.
“A Disappointment” Tech Support
The benefit to handing in your reviews as an approaching deadline looms ahead is that you can respond to the early feedback on the film(s) you submitted. This is my first official submission after many years of not submitting anything. So, as the director, I will state for the record that this film went into post as an attempt to exemplify abstraction, or “style over substance”, as I had discovered an interesting way to extract audio, flip it and slow it down. Eight years ago, after I had finished editing “A.D.”, and after 5 years of its sparse footage laying dormant on a DV Cam cassette tape, undisturbed, I submitted it to a rival film appreciation consortium where it was handily and systematically ignored. Since that time, it has sat in a state of suspended animation on my archive server without a single viewing until recently. I had always looked at it as a sort of a B-title or maybe something you’d get for free when you “buy one”.
But as some have surmised, it was not an intentional, individualized attempt at being “exploitative” or “mean spirited”, as all the “characters” and situations they find themselves in succumb to a similar “interview processes” (specifically the lines we hear off-screen, behind-the-camera), as well as audio and video manipulation. I recall this being a relatively quick edit, probably over the course of a two or three week time span, and edited as a complete abstraction of what it is, as I “detached myself” from what I was reviewing over and over. I was looking for a movement, to meet the audio I was manipulating. So this subtext of exploitation, I feel, misses the mark, however I won’t deny that it’s “there.” If some choose to insist that outright exploitation exists in the work, note the aforementioned audio and video techniques, as they are applied throughout, and not just during specific moments. Also note that due to usage of the audio and video effects, the grim reality of the film is reasonably distorted. A better documentary on the subject(s) would likely refrain from using such methods. To quote Colin himself, “Different.. but, I don’t think… better.”
“Biography Briefs: Dwayne and Wayne” by JML
Dwayne and Wayne become more sympathetic towards the end of JML’s summation of inseparable lives intertwined, despite the bizarre and smarmy narration which makes them quite a pair of revolting characters. The film never lets us in on what possible “personality rift” could had caused such a strong bond of brotherly love and friendship to become so easily unstable and fragile in this remarkably well-written quickie that really pokes fun at itself. Perhaps it’s best we leave those reasons to the imagination?
XXVIIb
“Year’s End” – Persephone Haverhast
The second half of this film has been deemed “rushed”, but it is, in fact, utterly insane, and a second viewing of it made me laugh uncontrollably. A veritable acting tour-de-force by Persephone Haverhast. So a quick shoot or not, I find this “obligatory” film by Ms. Haverhast well done and quite hilarious. Her shock at finding out that the Haverhast Award and all of its Credentials and Benefits will be handed over to a new winner at this year’s end and not next year’s end (but she is a two-time winner) is outrageous, over-the-top, hysterical, deranged – and expertly implemented. An unapologetic film immersed in itself, and one that shows how far both Haverhasts have come as auteurs. Therefore, Persephone’s Haverhast’s performance in “Year’s End” receives my recommendation for Saint’s Choice!
“The Connection” – Chip Lloyd Adderson and Maria Lopez
This film needs a quicker pace, and a second edit. Maybe more meat added to the concept would have yielded a more satisfying film? Also, I wanted more varied reaction shots. There was one particular and very powerful reaction closeup, where our luddite wannabe realizes he’s at a point of no return with this situation, which worked as an almost Kubrick-esque shock. I also noticed the irony of a film about a smart phone made on another smart phone, which is why during the walking sequences, I would have moved the camera outside of the easy-to-manage selfie parameter, and shot long. Visualize the growing distance between these two, and between the real, analog world, and the fake digital world vis-à-vis modern technology that so many people are hopelessly stuck in these days. Isolate everyone, including the audience, so we’re all forced to seep in our main character’s grief as he discovers that his lady friend has an app for everything, including their relationship. Although.. when we get right down to brass tacks, isn’t it really just a case of bad manners to have your face pressed into your phone constantly?
“Art Prison” – David Smart
What is an Art Prison? This question is not only not asked, it is not answered in David Smart’s latest meta-statement, “Art Prison”. The film seems to be essentially a short flashback, in the form of a fleeting memory about the time you were packing before the big move, and being outraged that someone would once again ask you paint someone’s portrait after they already volunteered your services. “You do recall that I worked in an Art Prison for 21 years, and that I just retired two weeks ago… right???!!” So is Art Prison the place you go after you sell out as an artist? Or is it where you go to fade away… or burn out…?? Or is simply the place you go to give up, as the mind can be a prison, too. A loose visual metaphor for the title bookends the film: an extremely cramped room that just seems impossible. Another film that had me wanting much more (as is always the case with “A Smart Film”).
XVIIc
“Alpha Beta Die” – Frank Squared
Since I wanted to watch these films a second or third time to give the best review possible, I have now spent almost three full hours of my life exploring the “concepts” of this film, and I’ve come to the conclusion that this film needed to be halved – at least. Maybe quartered. Or maybe hanged, drawn and quartered. Yes, to be sure, I go into a Frank Squared film expecting a vile misadventure in blood, vomit and feces, so I suppose the producers did not fail to let me or anyone else down in that regard. And I think they have a winner with the well-done incidental music and effects that accompany the action (including the various, strategically-placed fart noises). Also, we have some interesting acting. Notably, the characters of “Leslie” played by Wilhelm Van Benkerstein, “Campus Security” by Matthew Lieber and “Dad”, played by Frank Mulone, Sr. Their performances at times were more natural than many of the others, including our main protagonists. But with all that that being said, I think F2’s creativity commode has been overflowing for a while and is in need of a plunging, a flushing and maybe even a sanitizing, so that the next big F2 bowel movement lands in a fresh, clean new bowl. On a more critical note, the editing was atrocious. Even the worst-acted film with the most ridiculous plot can be saved by good editing and it was desperately needed here. Additionally, films that run this long, and have some semblance of a linear plot, also fare best with a point, in my opinion. Or, to use a term that is overly used, a “raison d’etre”. And so, the point of “Alpha Beta Die” is…? Don’t join fraternities or you’ll get a thumb up your ass and then hunted down and murdered by a bloodthirsty shit-demon that performs fellatio on you before it shreds your genitals and rips your throat out….? Huh?
(Let’s hope XVIId is coming soon ….)
XVIII
CHIP LLOYD ADDERSON AND MARIA LOPEZ
“E18: Tech Support” by Tech Support.
Why it should win: This walking tour service of our great city backed by a rarified dead-pan humor evoked a fascinating blend of thoughts and emotions. Not playable on YouTube due to copyright issues.
Why it should not win: Not playable on YouTube due to copyright issues.
“The Gourmand Society” by Vlindinhauer Haverhast.
Why it should win: Reese Terrible. The pictures of the hosts. Perhaps this move fully embodies the definition of Horror Art. The script was fantastic and of course: “May our fellowship remain a state of transcendence in perpetuity”
Why it should not win: The reviewers felt that it could have been more compact, the laughing sequences were excessive and jarring at times. Also, Maria lost her appetite for meat products for 12+ hours after watching it.
“Thoreau Burrows – Episode IV: The Friends of Woodsman Coyle” by Wilhem Van Benker
Why it should win: A high quality picture, successfully transporting the viewer to times past. The accents and the stringed instrumentation seemed spot on. Acting, script and costumes were fantastic. A journey through a labyrinth within the imagination.
Why it should not win: The train whistle and the sea turtle seemed slightly out of place.
“Sea Virus: Pilot” from Herr O
Why it should win: Opening images. The radio broadcast was incredibly realistic and entertaining. An unbelievably realistic guest appearance by the Nations President. “The Grand Zenith of Science”.
Why it should not win: Opening images may not have been originals but the overall originality of this film may have made up for this. + The vomit scene.
“Chapter 0: Invocation” by Balthazar Blümp (King of Witches)
Why it should win: The music, picture and story in this film were aligned perfectly and the transitions were great. Between the parking ticket, the snow mountain and the thorn, this film “checked all the boxes”.. the blood, the sweat, and the tears. The viewer is tantalized by this comedic and artistic journey.
Why it should not win: The music although more appropriate for “Invocation” it evoked associations of other prior works.
“A Disappointment” by Tech Support
Why it should win: A well-documented commentary and experienced horror of the steady downward progression of a night somewhere in the commonwealth.
Why it should not win: The Hillary Duff calendar.
“Year’s End” by Persephone Haverhast
Why it should win: The Delta Greeting Party.
Why it should not win: It was foreshadowed, it can simply be no other way.
“The Connection” by Chip Lloyd Adderson and Maria Lopez
Why it should win: No question that this was the most horrifying film of the night, a genius creation casting light onto the shadows of the mundane. The reality of the situation we all face is echoed throughout the movie and haunts the viewer afterwards, begging the viewer to reassess the way that they connect with others, how they are connected with technology and to what they are connected to. “The Connection” some might say was the hands down favorite of the evening.
Why it should not win: This film was an exercise of the mundane and perhaps was a brilliant manipulation of it in order to lead the viewer towards the horror we all face, but if this is not scene by the viewer.. there is the risk that they may encapsulate even further into a horror of their own making. This is a horrifying film that may “cross the line” for some, pushing its way across the line of Horror Art and into the serious horror of modern reality for certain viewers leaving them scarred for life, and it is for this reason that this is not a film for everyone.
“Art Prison” a Smart Film
Why it should win: The use of sound is riveting. It really captures both the sadness and the hope of a move (through space/time).
Why it should not win: The discomfort of the opening and final desk scene is almost too much to bear.
“Biography Briefs: Dwayne and Wayne” by JML
Why it should win: Extremely well done and “cohesive”. A beautiful blend of past memories via remarkable pictures. Thoughtfully narrated using the exact right voice.
Why it should not win: Would have loved to see some actual footage injected into the mix of images.
“Alpha Beta Die” by Frank Squared
Why it should win: The special effects in this movie are impressive and the monster dance/gyrations are haunting. Between the “good games” given by the security guard, and the “can sucking”, this film successfully highlights some of the more popular fraternal stereotypes. This film was convincing.
Why it should not win: The shit consumption scene and the elephant walk may have taken it a little too far in the eyes of some viewers.
“Pathway to Paracelsus I”
Why it should win: This film appears as a cornucopia of snippets of memories. The disappearing. “Wherever’s clever – happy burger king day” – Brilliant.
Why it should not win: We cannot think of a reason why this film should not win.
pretty nice, right?
May 14th 