We Make Movies

We Make Movies is an indie comedy marvel released in 2016. Directed by Matt Tory, the film drastically reshapes the traditional conceptions surrounding Indie films and cascades into an uproarious world of dreams, aspirations, egos, and most importantly, the spirit of indie filmmaking.

The movie vibrantly captures the doomed yet infectious enthusiasm of amateur moviemakers aiming for the stars. The story predominantly revolves around a thematic amalgamation of passion, inspiration, and the collective camaraderie in making dreams come true. Set against a backdrop of tight budgets, challenging shooting conditions, and a semi-professional cast and crew, the plot represents the true essence of passionate earnestness that goes into making even the smallest of projects.

We are introduced to our protagonist, Stevphen Bixby (played by Matt Tory) who is an overambitious, slightly egocentric, but inherently kind-hearted indie filmmaker. Stevphen is hell-bent on making a film solely for the sake of winning the biggest award at the film festival in order to prove his worth to his father. He remains unfazed by the monumental curveballs thrown his way and continues pumping in his tireless efforts to bring about the masterpiece he believes he is set out to create.

Jordan Hopewell delivers a commendable performance as an enthusiastic and vibrant character, Donny, who aspires to be an actor and genuinely believes in Stevphen’s vision. Hopewell effortlessly manages to strike emotional chords and comedy at the same time, bringing genuine heart and humor to the film.

Zack Slort offers a sterling performance as the documentary filmmaker in the movie, attempting to record the behind-the-scenes chaos and the journey of the film that Stevphen aspires to create. His character provides crucial insights into the highly human and deeply emotional moments of the film while also serving as a steady undercurrent of humor.

The film tells a compelling tale, but there's just as much drama behind the scenes. Alongside Stevphen's compelling mission, the movie is spiced up with simmering egos, conflicting aspirations, romance, and heart-warming friendships. There is a highly engrossing and enjoyable build-up of tension with a climax that leaves the audience both cracking up and rooting for the casting crew.

Despite the light-hearted banter and comedic elements, We Make Movies also does a fantastic job dealing with complex, mature themes. It poignantly explores layers of ambition, human ego, aspects of personal and professional failure, and ultimately, the essence of friendship and camaraderie. It also brings forth the true spirit of independent filmmaking- structured around passion and not profits.

Moreover, the film is technically sound and highly engaging. It utilizes both an in-film and expanded narrative that allows for a carefully balanced mix of character-driven humor and narrative suspense. The various relationships between cast and crew members come across as genuine, adding depth and complexity to the plot.

The dialogue is crisp, well-articulated, and humorously impactful, marking the journey of each character. It is laden with laugh-out-loud moments, sprinkled with pathos that help the audience identify and connect with the characters.

Visually, We Make Movies is a treat, with crisp cinematography and an environment that truly captures the raw, chaotic, and passionate world of indie filmmaking. The music and sound design accentuate the comedic and dramatic highs of the movie perfectly, making it a cinematic delight.

Suffice it to say, We Make Movies taps into the heart and soul of independent cinema, underlining the trials and tribulations, the whims and fancies, and the hopes and dreams of those who wish to tell their story. It paints a beautiful and funny picture of the challenges that come with creating art from scratch, offering an immerse narrative experience.

No, We Make Movies does not dazzle with large sets, high budgets, or special effects; instead, it draws in with its heart and its humor, showcasing that indie filmmaking is not about the grandeur, but the journey, the passion, and the wanting to tell a story. It is passionate, heartfelt, funny, and wonderfully charming to its core, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves cinema.