The repercussions of two horrific and devastating crimes and a quiet lesson in discipline are just a few of the 2025 documentary shorts nominated for the 97th annual Academy Awards which took place on Sunday, March 2. All of these shorts are available online and now playing at the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline, Massachusetts through Thursday, March 6. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Sam Fuentes in ‘Death By Numbers’
Please note that this review does not include Netflix’s The Only Girl in the Orchestra who took home Best Documentary Short or the New Yorker’s Oscar nominated documentary short Incident.
A beautifully engaging documentary from the start, Ema Ryan Yamazaki’s 23 minute Japanese short film Instruments of a Beating Heart, presented by Op-Docs, is a tender and endearing piece about an audition held for first graders for a part in a musical performance Ode to Joy in Tokyo 2022. The film’s cinematography is bright and inviting offering an inside look at these adorable, excitable and impressionable children learning about discipline amid competition. Their teacher is wise and firm with the students to help them grow. The film specifically focuses on intimidated Ayame who longs to play a particular instrument in the performance. The hidden meaning behind the title will not revealed here, but it is worth seeing this wonderful and tender film.
Ayame in ‘Instruments of a Beating Heart’
“Forever will always be yesterday.”
The classroom frozen in time, the warning signs and so much more encapsulate Parkland School horrific school shooting.
Written by Sam Fuentes and directed by Kim A Snyder, Death by Numbers dives deep inside case #26 from the perspective of traumatized survivor Sam Fuentes and the nature of what it is to live through this unimaginable loss.
The numbers represent not only the facts of the case, but what they know about the shooter through evidence of his mindset and sticks to Sam’s exclusive outlook on the case while tracing a fraction of her long and incalculable road to healing.
Death by Numbers also examines the unimaginable loss, guilt, forgiveness, grief, death, and mortality as well as an agonizing and riveting encounter with the shooter. It is a unique and chilling film that is humanized by Sam’s dynamic perspective.
‘I am Ready, Warden’
In 2022, Texas Inmate John Henry Ramirez counts down the days until his execution after being convicted of the murder of Pablo Castro in 2004.
MTV Documentary Films presents I am Ready, Warden, a stirring 37 minute documentary set in Livingston, Texas that impressively covers just about every perspective of this heinous and unplanned act, its aftermath, and a snapshot into Ramirez’s background. It is mainly told from Ramirez’s perspective, but contains interviews with the godmother who supported Ramirez when his family left, the victim’s family, Ramirez’s son born when Ramirez was on the run, and takes a deeper look at Texas’s death penalty. I am Ready, Warden also examines the complicated emotions of everyone involved in this case including what results when Ramirez tries to reach out to the victim’s son, Aaron.
All of these shorts are available online and now playing at the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline, Massachusetts through Thursday, March 6. Click here for more information and for tickets.
If eternal ambition had a face, it would be Jackie Siegel’s. She chases her dreams like only a queen can.
With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, shrewdly directed by Michael Arden with dynamic choreography by Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher “Cree” Grant, The world premiere of The Queen of Versailles continues its pre-Broadway run live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through August 25. This impeccably well-timed show grandly opened during the Paris Olympics and runs two hours and 45 minutes including one 20 minute intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Kristin Chenoweth in THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES. Photo Credit Ken Yotsukura
From its French-inspired royal opening, The Queen of Versailles is a gorgeous sight to behold and it is immediately clear that Emerson Colonial Theatre and this pre-Broadway debut are made for each other. Emerson Colonial Theatre’s architectural design is patterned after elements of Versailles and The Louvre. This elegant baroque-style venue’s meticulously-detailed gold trim, ornate murals, and glittering chandeliers superbly match Dane Laffrey’s multi-layered video and opulent scenic design including its fine crown molding, candelabras and matching gold embellishments.
The Queen of Versailles delves into the love of wealth, excess, and consumption led by a sterling performance by Kristin Chenoweth as the self-proclaimed queen herself, Jaqueline Siegel, or Jackie. Small town New Yorker Jackie has tremendous dreams as well as the determination and ingenuity to make them all come true with a degree in computer engineering. However, things do not go quite as planned, and Jackie is left to think of a new way to achieve her ‘champagne wishes and caviar dreams’ as described by host Robin Leach on the inspiring 80’s TV show, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous that Jackie watched growing up with her family. Chenoweth’s sunny disposition, rich vocals and sharp comic timing tempers Jackie’s seeming shallowness with irresistible charm to make determined, resourceful, and relentless Jackie an instantly likable lead. Chenoweth’s vocals are just as dynamic and powerful as ever with the hilarious opening number, Because I Can as she embraces and embodies this complex character that prefers her diet coke in a golden chalice.
Kristin Chenoweth as Jackie Siegel in The Queen of Versailles – Credit Matthew Murphy
Though Chenoweth as Jackie and the cast seem to be speaking to the audience, Arden’s clever direction has the audience watching the making of The Queen of Versailles documentary where Jackie and her husband, F. Murray Abraham in an impressive portrayal as David, is in the process of building the biggest house in America patterned after Versailles and located in Orlando, Florida with a budget to the tune of 75 million and a Benihana in the basement. Leading to all this is a fascinating and vastly entertaining story based on Lauren Greenfield’s documentary film of the same name and the real life stories of Jackie and David Siegel. It’s a multilayered rags-to-riches-story….and that is only the beginning.
F. Murray Abraham as David Siegel in The Queen of Versailles – Credit Matthew Murphy
Boasting a brilliant cast, The Queen of Versailles is both socially satirical and genuinely funny while delivering a meaty and heartfelt storyline. Sparkling Chenoweth meets her match in F. Murray Abraham as wildly successful, charismatic and equally ambitious Timeshare King David. A slick and charming businessman, Abraham and Chenoweth rapidly share a likeminded rapport and some powerful scenes. Abraham and the cast humorously perform The Ballad of the Timeshare King with Laffrey’s marvelous video projections, some onstage orchestrations, and Christian Cowan’s notable western-inspired costumes. From meticulously-detailed historical to outrageously fabulous as well as from glitzy to edgy, Cowan’s colorful assortment of standout and distinctive costumes with Cookie Jordan’s embellishing wigs enliven each compelling scene.
Kristin Chenoweth and F. Murray Abraham in The Queen of Versailles – Credit Matthew Murphy
Nina White delivers a memorable performance as Jackie’s introspective daughter Victoria who feels like an outsider in her own home. Jackie has a complicated relationship with Victoria who likes to be called Ricky in spite of being named after the Queen. White’s soaring vocals lift stirring numbers Pretty Always Wins and Book of Random to another level as well as a stunning moment with Chenoweth for In Little Houses. White’s lighthearted duet with Tatum Grace Hopkins as struggling Jonquil for Poor Little Lizard bring some levity to the production’s more serious topics. White and Melody Butiu as a wonderful Sophia share a sweet camaraderie. Hopkins shares the stage with Chenoweth for a phenomenal rendition of I Could Get Used to This.
The Siegel Family in The Queen of Versailles – Credit Matthew Murphy
The supporting cast all have fabulous comic timing with a notable performance by Pablo David Laucerica in multiple roles including a smirking King Louis and as well as Andrew Kober as an over the top pageant host and others.
The Cast of THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES. Photo Credit Nile Hawver
With gumption, determination, courage, and ambition, Chenoweth as Jackie candidly tells the audience you must thrust yourself onto greatness. Realizing your dream and what is truly important is quite a revelation and what a thrill to embark on this musical journey to chase a dream with the Queen of Versailles herself.
The Cast of THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES. Photo Credit Nile Hawver
With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, shrewdly directed by Michael Arden and dynamic choreography by Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher Cree Grant, The world premiere of The Queen of Versailles continues its pre-Broadway run live and in person at the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through August 25. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Mary Lou Williams, featured in the National Women’s History Museum in Virginia, mentored jazz greats such as ‘Dizzy’ Gillespie and Charlie Parker. The latter two names may have become legendary, yet the former name is not quite as familiar. However, the significant impact she had on Jazz should have put her on equal footing. Among many other topics, Ben Makinen’s Echoes of Tradition offers an explanation.
Since Jazz’s roots are about breaking the rules, Ben Makinen’s latest documentary breaks tradition by highlighting exceptional and groundbreaking musicians while calling for change.
Written, directed, and produced with remarkable reflection by Ben Makinen, Echoes of Tradition is a comprehensive and absorbing jazz documentary that runs just under an hour. Click here for more information.
In Who Killed Jazz, featured at the New York City Indie Film Festival in 2022, Makinen explored the evolution of live music and the impact of today’s surging technology, the expansion of creativity and simultaneously the lack of original ideas, the use of sampled music and jazz’s vast array of music influences. Echoes of Tradition looks back at jazz’s history and fascinating roots while also highlighting some notable talents such as Dean of Jazz Arts at the Manhattan School of Music and Canadian trumpeter Ingrid Jenson, Berklee College of Music’s Brass Department Chair and Trumpeter Tanya Darby, Indian DJ Harleen “Leen Tree” Singh, and Native American trumpeter Delbert Anderson who share their outlooks on Jazz’s lack of inclusiveness as well as their love for the genre. Both documentaries place an emphasis on music as a universal language, a source of camaraderie, and one of the most powerful forms of therapy and healing. Losing sight of music’s inherent unifying power could make for a bleak future.
Echoes of Tradition is an enlightening and optimistic film which brings thought provoking insight to a number of prevalent topics. Filmed all over the world with multilayered cinematography and a blend of modern and vintage flair of city landscapes as well as historical portraits and photos, Echoes of Tradition offers wonderful behind the scenes footage, insight from distinctive jazz musicians, some memorable jam sessions and much more. Among some of the notable performances include Delbert Anderson’s Heart Passage, a gorgeous acapella rendition of an Indian hymn sung by Harleen ‘Leen Tree’ Singh, and Julia Keefe’s lively rendition of You’d Be So Nice to Come To.
Written, directed, and produced with remarkable reflection by Ben Makinen, Echoes of Tradition is a comprehensive and absorbing jazz documentary that runs just under an hour. Click here for more information.
Ingrid Jansen and Julia Keefe are among the many musicians taking the stage at the Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival live and in person on May 10 and 11 at the Kennedy Center in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.
Imagine seeing a relative’s picture for the first time. Ever wonder what was happening when that moment was captured? What is the significance behind it and what was going on through their mind? Photos from the past bring up a great deal of curiosity and Deadclass Ohio imagines some of these possibilities as a woman attempts to pay tribute to long lost relatives who were Holocaust survivors in a Jewish cemetery.
Based on Tadeusz Kantor’s documentary Umarla Klaza and directed with experimental complexity by Mitchell Polonsky and Chloe Claudel, The Goat Exchange’s Deadclass Ohiooffers various perspectives on a photo and situation with a mix of humor and poignancy as it tackles loneliness, grief, and disconnection while capturing a harrowing time in history. It also explores the nature of the past.
Paul Lazar Photo credit Hana MendelChloe Claudel and Marcus Amaglo Photo credit Hana Mendel
A lone bench, an escalating pile of laundry, a dining room table, a scrambled TV set and a floral arrangement is the foundation of two unique and related scenes on a dark and minimal stage. Two people enter a cemetery and commiserate about a photo of a woman’s grandmother as they contemplate what is behind the photograph and what happened when the photo was taken. Featuring Paul Lazar, Marcus Amaglo, Chloe Claudel, and Juliana Sass with Jim Fletcher, Deadclass Ohio holds many revelations which should not be unveiled here except it invites a sense of déjà vu and reaching into history.
Marcus Amaglo and Chloe Claudel Photo credit Hana MendelPaul-Lazar Photo credit Hana Mendel
Each skilled member of this intimate cast faces a challenging task of bringing emotional depth to each scene as well as presenting a new perspective to each scenario. This is all while the plot progresses in unexpected ways. Little nuances of each actor’s performance shift the perspective and the production becomes more personal while it simultaneously delves into the unusual. Two memorable scenes metaphorically explore the nature of pigeons while the other echoes a haunting rendition of Too Young by Nat King Cole.
Photo credit to Mitchell Polonsky
Mitchell Polonsky’s vivid sound and media design and Abraham E.S. Rebello Trujillo’s quirky costume design lends to the production’s mysterious atmosphere. Enhanced by a poignant violin score performed by Sasha Yakub, Deadclass Ohio contains some absurd and meaningful humor through some clever blocking, but it also keeps the viewer guessing at different points during the production. The show does not always make its intentions clear, but it does deliver the stirring emotional weight of loneliness, loss, disconnection, and a longing to be understood which becomes more prevalent as the production continues.
New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory continues streaming The Goat Exchange’s Deadclass Ohio through August 12. The production is approximately one hour. Click here for more information and how to view this play.
The OBIE-Award winning New Ohio ICE Factory is celebrating its 29th year and has been presenting a number of innovative works each summer that continue through August 20 live and in person at New Ohio Theatre, 154 Christopher Street in New York City. Virtual shows are available through August 27. Isla, Acheron: The River of Tragedy, and Body Through Which the Dream Flows are just a few of works presented during this annual festival. Click here for further details, how to stream, and for tickets.
Photo courtesy of New Ohio Theatre
Bikes fly, a plane takes off, and cars zoom as a world unfolds in interactive shadows. Produced by Hit the Lights Theatre, Isla is a documentary experience which combines shadow puppets, photos, animation, and live action to depict the warmth of Samantha Blaine’s homeland and the realities of the Cuban invasion she grew up in. Her unique and personal journey with her mother and two free spirited sisters integrates nature and song to demonstrate the realities of invasion, family, and how everything is connected. Featuring strong vocals as well as heartwarming and wistful performances by Samantha Blain, Marlena Mack, Tiffany Ortiz, Kristopher Dean, Mikayla Stanley, Claron Hayden, and Casey Scott Leach, Isla is a fascinating production that explores heartache, division, political turmoil, pollution, and how Blaine’s world was shaken by communism.
‘Isla’ Photo by Claron Haydon
A car crash and a tense, mysterious encounter lead to much more than either of these characters bargained for at a river at the Mexican-US border. Directed by Martin Balmaceda, Spanish language production Acheron: The River of Tragedy serves up a wealth of twists and turns in this sordid and at times clever tale. This production has mature themes and is not for children.
A secretive and menacing presence, portrayed by Cinthia Perez Navarro, has entered the life of Leonardo, portrayed with strained intensity by Aline Lemus Bernal, a nattering, impulsive, and yet perpetual optimist who dreams of freedom as soon as that tumultuous river is crossed. However, there is a heavy price for that dream and neither are savory characters. Navarro’s searing intensity and cryptic glances make for some skittish moments while Bernal’s jaunty moves and brisk chatter never quite distract from Navarro’s distressing wrath. Cinthia Perez Navarro and Aline Lemus Bernal are also behind the show’s sharp choreography. Acheron: The River of Tragedy is a gritty tale about the darker side of humanity in the pursuit of happiness.
Body Through Which the Dreams Flows also explores what it takes to achieve a dream. In this case, it is achieving the Olympic dream as past footage of Olympic champions kick off the production. Part documentary and part stage performance, creator Soomi Kim and company takes a look at the incredible world of gymnastics and the corruption and tragedy that has seeped into the sport and the lives of young girls in training. What does it take to be a champion? Sometimes the price is too steep.
What is really compelling about Body Through Which Dreams Flow are the reenactments of some real life footage as well as Soomi Kim and Alexandra Beller’s beautiful choreography, the sheer athleticism, and interpretation from athletes Lucy Meola, Olivia Caraballoso, Madison Rodriguez, Shayna Wilson, Nora Avci, and Ai Clancy. Enhanced by Amanda Ringger’s haunting lighting, Body Through Which the Dream Flows is a stirring and eye opening production addressing the pressures and what seems like the impossible expectations from coaches while focusing on what past athletes have endured. It also delivers a powerful message on the importance of a child having the chance to be a child.
New Ohio BTWtheDF Full cast_ Ai Clancy, Soomi Kim, Madison Rodriguez, Nora Avci, Shayna Wilson, Lucy Meola, Olivia Caraballoso
The New Ohio ICE Factory 2022 continues live and in person at the New Ohio Theatre through August 20 with virtual availability through August 27. Click here for more information and tickets.
What does an angry, vaguely defined metal band and classic jazz have in common?
Though there doesn’t seem to be much, one thing is certain…both move to beats all their own. At one time, live music was the way of the world, but with the impact of surging technology, the expansion of creativity and simultaneously the lack of original ideas, the use of sampled music and a vast array of music influences, music is a constant evolution.
Photo credit to Ben Makinen
What hasn’t changed is the effect is has on its listener. Who Killed Jazz explores the art of jazz, a respected, quintessential genre defined by its clever improvisation, and how it fits into the contemporary world. Deadguy Killing Music is a peculiar authorized documentary on Deadguy, a band that hinges on chaotic improvisation. Both were featured in the documentary 13 series at the recent New York City Indie Film Festival at New York City’s Producers Club.
The New York City Indie Film Festival featured a variety of films from shorts to narratives to documentaries curated with common themes. Sleepless Critic had the opportunity to review screenings on music, small businesses, love, connection and much more.
Co-founded by Executive Director Dennis Cieri and Director Bonnie Rush, this renowned festival has screened thousands of films since it was first launched in 2010. Click here for more information, film submissions for next year, and click here to see what we had to say about NYC Indie Film Festival’s Narrative 14 series, here for film reviews in the Documentary 12 series, and here for a film review of 34 Carmine Street, part of the Documentary 14 series.
Skillfully written, directed, and produced by Ben Makinen and inspired by Makinen’s Jazztown documentary on Vimeo, on iTunes/Apple TV and Google Play Christmas Day, and soon on Amazon and Vudu, Who Killed Jazz is a comprehensive and fascinating analysis of jazz’s exciting history and how the value of it has changed over the years through the eyes of musicians who have lived and are living through it. Becoming a jazz musician is more of a risk than it has ever been before as television, disc jockeys, and pre-recorded music take over the clubs and today’s club owners are paying musicians less. Jazz is an extraordinary and complex genre as well as a standard in music education and yet, it struggles.
Filmed in Colorado and Indonesia with eye-catching cinematography that delivers vintage flair, Who Killed Jazz captures fascinating perspectives, memorable stories, and concert footage from renowned musicians such as Dianne Reeves and various insights from contemporary musicians like Esperanza Spaulding. It takes a hard look at the industry and how jazz and jazz culture has changed to fit in, but in the process, is it losing what made jazz great in the first place?
Photo credit to the NYC Indie Film Festival
Foo Fighters front man David Grohl once advised wannabe musicians to go a yard sale, buy an old drum set, get in a garage, and just suck. Deadguy is a 90s New Jersey metal band that started in a basement who claimed they didn’t care how they sounded and to some, that was part of the appeal.
After all, they had just about given up before they really got started. Before selling some albums, performing with the Misfits or even before the release of their debut album, they had split up. It was a band that almost lived up to their name.
Written, directed, and produced by William Saunders with mature themes, Deadguy: Killing Music is a unconventional, authorized, and fan-focused documentary about Deadguy, a self-proclaimed anti-establishment band with punk influences that seemed to self-destruct before their music raged on. It is a by-the-numbers 90-minute documentary that could have easily gotten away with being a tighter 60 minutes if not for its occasional meanderings and side stories.
If you were a fan of this group, you’ll be satisfied by never-before-seen footage, the band’s self destructive and wildly absurd antics, songwriting, storytelling and just how they created their debut album, Fixation on a Coworker. However, the sheer chaos of the band’s sound as well as their impulsive and rage-fueled delivery can be off putting even if the lyrics have some substance. Having reunited in 2021, it is ironic that they have returned to sing anti-establishment songs while living the suburban life they so rallied against in a house with a mortgage, jobs, kids, and all. Maybe this time they really have something to be frustrated about.
Who Killed Jazz and Deadguy: Killing Music were both featured in the Documentary 13 series at the recent New York City Indie Film Festival which took place live and in person at the Producers Club in New York City. Click here for more information about this annual event, film submissions, and more.
You’ve Got Mail, a hit film starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, explores the virtues and survival of a small business bookstore up against a number of factors including corporate bookstore chains. Small bookstore owner Kathleen Kelly and her fictional Shop around the Corner is embraced by the community for its rich history, Kelly’s unique personality reflected in every aspect of her bookstore including the storefront, her handpicked books, and the selection of readers and performers that appear at her store. Every aspect is meticulously designed to make a particular impression for the customer. The Shop around the Corner’s small but knowledgeable staff would not only know each handpicked book by heart and personally assist you in making a selection, but probably knows most of their devoted customers not only by name, but as a friend.
Supporting small business has not only always been a prevalent topic, but has gained that much more significance in the last few years, especially during the height of the pandemic. Corporate business, rising real estate prices, the tough economy, and many other factors continuously impact the survival of small businesses and without more support, they often get left in the dust.
The New York City Indie Film Festival featured a variety of films from shorts to narratives to documentaries curated with common themes. Sleepless Critic had the opportunity to review screenings on music, small businesses, love and connection and much more.
Co-founded by Executive Director Dennis Cieri and Director Bonnie Rush, this renowned festival has screened thousands of films since it was first launched in 2010. Click here for more information, film submissions for next year, and click here to see what we had to say about NYC Indie Film Festival’s Narrative 14 series and here for what we had to say about the films in the Documentary 12 series.
Photo credit to the New York City Indie Film Festival
Directed insightfully by Beatriz Browne, renowned short documentary 34 Carmine Street makes a strong argument not only for the survival of a historic and strong minded Greenwich Village bookstore and other unique, longtime small businesses on that street, but encapsulates what makes small businesses an irreplaceable part of the community without being preachy or political. It digs deep into a part of Greenwich Village’s history where these small businesses have survived for decades while always having something significant to say about the world. It may also change your mind about where you shop next.
34 Carmine Street, Cinema and Sanctuary, and Trash Day were all part of Documentary 14 at the New York City Indie Film Festival which continued through June 19 in person at the Producers Club. Click here for more information on this annual festival and its winners.
What is it like to feel stuck due to circumstances beyond your control?
Curated by Gerard van den Broek, each film in the Documentary 12 series including Dancing is an Old Friend, Hilary, Inventory, Looking for Jack, and The Green Line at the New York City Indie Film Festival through June 19 featured people who faced unforeseen obstacles in an attempt to find peace within.
Whether facing trauma, isolation in a pandemic, family brokenness or being caught between one nation and another, these themes invite a feeling of powerlessness until hope is found. This particular collection of documentaries delivered some surprising twists and turns in some profound situations in an attempt to discover where one belongs in the world.
The New York City Indie Film Festival featured a variety of films from shorts to narratives to documentaries curated with common themes. Sleepless Critic had the opportunity to review screenings on music, small businesses, love and connection and much more. Co-founded by Executive Director Dennis Cieri and Director Bonnie Rush, this renowned festival has screened thousands of films since it was first launched in 2010. Click here for more information, film submissions for next year, and click here to see what we had to say about NYC Indie Film Festival’s Narrative 14 series.
Directed by Marta Renzi, Dancing is an Old Friend is written by and stars Leah Barsky and Jennifer Tortorello Walker. It is a relatable account of an amateur ballroom dancer and professional ballet dancer brought together by dance who must find new ways to connect after the pandemic put the world in isolation. They both struggle with this new way of life but are determined to forge ahead together.
During the pandemic, the arts were hit hard. Many professional dancers had to find alternate ways to demonstrate their art and remain in top form until the time came for them to once again take the stage. Dancing is an Old Friend explores the momentum of their daily lives during the pandemic and a chance to examine why they live their lives the way they do and where dance factors into it now and in the future.
‘Dancing is an Old Friend’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival
What made this film fascinating is not only the captivating athleticism and style of the dancers in action, but comparing each perspective on dance itself and how it demonstrates the bonds of this friendship. This is not a tragic account of being lost during the pandemic, but an intimate and sincere documentary that explores the good and bad in equal measure and the hope that springs forth during this life altering period of time.
What may or may not have happened is a mystery in Hilary.
Hilary Porter, through her own drawings, illustrates a repeated and menacing alien encounter that has left her haunted. Hilary’s harrowing recollection unfolds through her graphic narration and unusual drawings as she shares that she was always thought she was different. Director and producer Mariana Zarpellon offers some insight into who Hilary is and how she has been affected by these encounters and though I was initially intrigued by this film, I was left with more concern for Hilary’s well being than the rationality and content of Hilary’s recollections.
‘Hilary’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival
Resourcefulness is a defining quality in any artist and nothing less than resourcefulness and love defines the story of Inventory, a documentary directed and produced by Daniella Gitlin, the daughter of sculptor, Michael Gitlin. The film is designed not only to share her father’s relatable journey as a struggling artist, but the unconventional manner in which Michael Gitlin’s legacy is being preserved.
Interwoven into the film are classic American standards such as Someone to Watch over Me, beloved songs from Gitlin’s heritage, and past family photos to create a vintage ambiance and to smoothly rewind the clock to a time before her father’s inventory had accumulated. It is a unique and personal story about how love and family transcends obstacles even under unusual circumstances and how the film’s most extraordinary “inventory” is not just confined to Gitlin’s art.
‘Inventory’ Photo credit to the New York City Indie Film Festival
For anyone who is searching or has searched for a family member, the idea of finding them is met with a plethora of emotions. Sara Zeppilli Freeman captures just that and more in her deeply personal documentary, Looking for Jack. Part of Looking for Jack’s endearing strength is it is shot much like a home movie where it is easy to put oneself in Sara’s shoes. As Sara talks to the camera with a jittery glow, her excitement is palpable at the promise that her life is about to change.
On this special day with Sara wearing a broad smile, one can picture themselves in Sara as she excitedly waits in anticipation and trepidation to meet her father for the first time in 21 years having traveled from Boston to Portugal. No matter the outcome, that moment of time is a monumental experience to be treasured and hopefully not regretted. The pinnacle of the film is that building tension as Sara waits, the camera panning carefully through Sara’s surroundings for that moment of relief.
‘Looking for Jack’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival
In a land fraught with uncertainty, Yehudit Kahana is no stranger to anxiety and strife for most of her life. Co-written with Sharon Yaish, directed, and produced by Yehudit Kahana herself and set from the early 2000s to today, illuminating documentary The Green Line focuses on Yehudit’s coming of age as she resides in Elon Moreh, a land near the Green Line which borders the Palestine territories and Israel. Since a life changing incident occurred resulting from an innocent child’s game, Yehudit has struggled with the threat of sudden violence, terrorist attacks, and chaos in a place where she doesn’t feel she entirely belongs.
‘The Green Line’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival
The Green Line delivers a wealth of information on certain incidents in Israel, Palestine, and the Green Line which can be confusing at times, but what is clear was how Yehudit felt in circumstances beyond her control in a harsh and threatening land determined to break free. The Green Line has some lighter and amusing moments with family that not only shed light on Yehudit’s understandably frustrating, strict, and expected traditional place as a female in the world and in the path of the Torah, but also explores how valuable the road less taken can be.
Dancing is an Old Friend, Hilary, Inventory, Looking for Jack and The Green Line were all part of Documentary 12 at the New York City Indie Film Festival which continued through June 19. Click here for more information on this annual festival and its winners.
A roaring crowd greeted hip-hop comedic dynamos, Freestyle Love Supreme opening night at the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston on Friday, March 18. Packed with plenty of self-proclaimed Freestyle Love Supreme super fans, witnessing this unique, interactive, Tony award-winning production feels more like attending a rock concert. The anticipation leading up to it was palpable and I immediately got the sense I was in for a truly remarkable experience.
L to R: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kaila Mullady AKA Kaiser Roze, Anthony Veneziale AKA Two Touch and Aneesa Folds AKA Young Nees Photo credit to Joan Marcus
No wonder Freestyle Love Supreme is beloved seeing that the show still features some of the founding cast members since the group started in 2004 and went on to be featured in the self-titled Hulu documentary and on Broadway. Founding member Chris Sullivan AKA Shockwave wows with phenomenal hip hop beats (and seemingly impossible) sound effects, Aneesa Folds AKA Young Nees can perform powerful vocal gymnastics to anything that is thrown Young Nees’s way, and founding member Anthony Veneziale AKA Two Touch is a great and welcoming host. Not only can every cast member deliver clever quips at the drop of a hat, but the show is friendly, interactive, and inclusive.
From L to R: Chris Sullivan AKA Shockwave, Richard Baskin Jr AKA Rich Medway, Anthony Veneziale AKA Two Touch and Aneesa Folds AKA Young Nees Photo credit to Joan Marcus.
Is Freestyle Love Supreme a big party? A resounding yes, but every performance is unique so it is best enjoyed just knowing the basics. Don’t feel pressure to participate, but the more enthusiasm and participation, the better the show. Trust me. Even in masks which Freestyle Love Supreme deems ‘consonant killers,’ the audience is invited to demonstrate what they are saying in creative and amusing ways. It is fun, has heart, and there wasn’t a dull moment.
The show is tailor made for the locals boasting a slew of signature Boston and pop culture references. Listen closely for the inventive and masterful delivery of these brilliant, high-speed rappers. The possibilities are endless. They also aren’t shy about what they say onstage. This may sound a bit like Whose Line is it Anywayand Wayne Brady was part of the cast at one point, but accompanied by an intimate live band, Freestyle Love Supreme is just on another level. For example, one audience member suggested the word, ‘Yankees’ and it was amazing to see how just many ways that one word was demonstrated led by the vocal styling of hilarious Jay C. Ellis AKA Jellis J.
The cast of ‘Freestyle Love Supreme’ Photo credit to Joan Marcus
Freestyle Love Supreme is hilarious, relatable and brilliantly fast-paced, but what makes the show most endearing was not so much the spectacle, but how much the cast does not hesitate to share their personal experiences as each show is shaped into a carefully tailored crowd pleaser. To think for the first time ever, the show’s full set was not delivered by opening night! I can’t imagine having a better time.
Freestyle Love Supreme continues live and in person at the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, MA through April 2. Click here for more information and tickets.
A spontaneous escape, an evil queen, finding inspiration and discovering super strength is just the tip of the iceberg for New York City’s Indie Theatre Film Festival’s Coming of Age Shorts Screening. These shorts explore overcoming troubles, fears, and heartache in remarkable ways including a sense of humor as demonstrated in Dianne Diep’s Cloud Gazing. Peals of laughter can remedy almost any situation.
The New York City Indie Theatre Film Festival continues streaming through Sunday, February 20. Click here for more information and how to stream a variety of dynamic films including animation and documentary works.
Photo credit to the NYC Indie Film Festival
In the face of chaos, there is strength. Overcoming is such a prevalent theme in these coming of age shorts and none quite faces it like Jonah Beres as Sam Wheeler in Balloon, a boy who is relentlessly bullied at school. Who can Sam really turn to? Beres’s sympathetic eyes and careful demeanor resemble a young Dane DeHaan. DeHaan has a knack for portraying characters with pent up emotion just on the brink of letting go. Directors Jeremy Merrifield and Dave Testa capture a captivating burst of emotions and the awkwardness of childhood through nature, at home, and symbolically in a popping balloon.
Jonah Beres as Sam Wheeler ‘Balloon’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
Directed and produced by Dianne Diep, Cloud Gazing is a lighthearted take upon a common rite of passage in New York City. It is the epitome of looking at the bright side as Dianne Diep as Mia makes the best of her latest apartment in the Big City. The silly and imaginative dialogue, cinematography, and the peals of laughter from Shannon Whelan as Dylan and Dianne Diep as Mia could leave the most serious heart uplifted. Click here for more on Cloud Gazing and Dianne Diep can also be seen in upcoming Mia: Unraveling Series.
Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
Profound life advice is hard to come by. For example, ‘Life is better than a movie…buy cookies and cream’ is a notable and memorable quote from Tom’s Bench. Directed by Richard H. Pluim, it’s a heartwarming short film taking place on a special Astoria Park bench in New York. Most notable is the soothing and fitting Simon and Garfunkel-style closing song Come and Go by the Timber Choir.
Adam Patterson and Kyle Stockburger on ‘Tom’s Bench’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
Starting a new day holds new meaning for an unhappy wife in Expectations directed by Vic Dominguez. It is also directed, written, and starring Kaitlin Gould. This short would benefit with a longer screen time because Gould’s actions only bring up more questions.
Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
Overcoming has several meanings for a discouraged artist longing for inspiration and she may find it in a most unconventional way in You and I written directed and produced by Yiqing Zhao. It is a quirky, colorful, and sweet film about overcoming doubt for the dream in your heart.
To the sounds of Gymnopedie No 1, Fair is a stinging, deeply relatable, and inventive short film infusing fairy tale with stark reality as a woman, portrayed by Marissa Molnar, must overcome her current circumstances. It is a clever and fascinating piece that has moments of charm and humor in its brief time frame.
Marissa Molnar is ‘Fair’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
School life isn’t easy for Angella Cao as Jessa in Pippi, a nod to the famous children’s book character, Pippi Longstocking. Most notable is the moving and poignant interactions between the adorable Cao and Karoline Xu as her mom.
Angella Cao as Jessa in ‘Pippi’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival
A woman is on a mysterious voyage in Goat. This short film has beautiful cinematography and its share of odd humor. Ben Lewis as Simon is an especially intriguing character.
The New York City Indie Theatre Film Festival continues streaming through Sunday, February 20. Click here for more information and how to stream a variety of films.
