***1/2 of ****
Rated: Not yet rated, but I would expect R for language.
Length: 99 minutes
Credits:
Writers: Ed Radke
Director: Ed Radke
Cast:
Freddy: Maurice Compte - 24 year old that showed up to an open call in L.A.
Albert: Paddy Connor - A freshmen non-actor who sent in an unsolicited audition tape. He is so accident prone that he was hospitalized three times during filming.
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I had the opportunity to see this screening with the director, and there was a long discussion afterwards. While we were having the discussion about "the blind madness that we call film making," someone pointed out that the space we were in was in "American Movie" which is itself the story of the blind madness of film making. Securing working funds was the driving problem, but he should have too much difficulty paying off those credit cards now. "The Dream Catcher" will have a slightly different soundtrack when it is released in May due to costs on some songs.
Synopsis:
Two boys with juvenile records link up on their way west. They travel by hopping trains, hitch hiking, and car theft while evading the police. They are individually searching for parents who abandoned them at a young age. Something of themselves is discovered along the way.
Review:
The cinematography was outstanding for an independent film in part because of Mr. Radke's decision to shoot in 16mm. This allowed for many shots that would have been difficult with larger equipment. The distance of their travel is well emphasized by the active scenery we are shown on the road trip. The bleakness of the east from where the boys are escaping is contrasted by the greater color and freedom as the get closer to their destination. The darkness of the solemn Freddy is shown with his dark coat, and contrasted by his alter ego associate, Albert. The maturation of Freddy is well developed through the film, and supports his decision in the end. Albert's actions lead him to a non-Hollywood end that is not as dark as had been originally written. Also absent is the glitzy blood and sleaziness of Hollywood films which leaves room for a story to develop. Newcomer Maurice Compte showed a strong dramatic ability that overcame the somber nature of his character. Newcomer Paddy Oconnor was effective as the hyperactive clepto, and may face typecasting for his effort. A job is better than no job. The growth of Freddy shows that through hard work, one can persevere. Director Radtke was a juvenile felon who grew up to be a Guggenheim Fellow. This film is worth seeing.
-"I got some pickles"-