Film Fest Review
Film Fest is a 2021 feature film directed by Marshall Cook, with writing by Marshall Cook and Paul Alan Cope.
It feels like a forlorn conclusion that anyone who loves movies or let’s say reviews them would naturally enjoy a film about filmmaking. Even with that cliché notion upon us, Film Fest is a perfect encapsulation of the thunderous highs and crashing lows of being an indie artist. This is not simply a good movie but required viewing for anyone who has a passing curiosity of making films.
Keeping all that in mind though, one has not only to be a lover of cinema to have a good time here. The story is smart, with countless nods to the tropes of the film industry, but is also completely approachable to an outsider looking in. The comedy is great throughout with tried-and-true story beats that will keep you hooked.
If you are a film lover of any kind, though, you will have any amazing time. Utilizing a core central cast that consists of the director, cinematographer, producer, and production assistant was a great amalgamation of personality types. They are amazing doppelgangers for the industry, but completely relatable enough as people to keep you well invested in their stories.
Of course, no film is complete without solid production value, which this film has in spades. Cook and team are firing on all cylinders here. Amazing cinematography by Edwin P. Stevens helps deliver a perfect flare to the visuals throughout. Smart editing by John David Buxton keeps things paced out perfectly. The list of course could continue on and on.
With the acting everyone takes solid turns keeping characters grounded but also elevating the material when needed. Nothing is ever overdramatic or forced, and the film knows exactly when to sprinkle in some humor when emotions get heavier. As stated, the beats followed are treaded ground, but the originality in the delivery stands tall. A special nod has to go to Diona Reasonover as Alex, who really brings about a sincerity in what could have easily just been a secondary supporting character.
Film Fest is one of those movies that captures the landscape of indie cinema while still making an approachable watch to those outside of the industry. It is a clever, heartfelt film that contains so many significant elements. Of course, to wrap this up it must be mentioned that it has Will Sasso, for anyone who grew up with Mad TV you will understand the significance of his inclusion in this movie.
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To watch the film: Amazon, YouTube, Google Play, and iTunes.
Cheers!
Daniel Hess
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