I was wondering if anyone was well acquainted with this movie. Everything I can find says it was a true documentary, but I just can’t believe that. It has to be at least a little bit of a put on, right? That is just too depressing to believe that every bit of that story and the characters were 100% real. Sheesh, Knowing many aspiring filmmakers, and having dreams in that direction myself, the patheticness of the characters in that movie just makes me uncomforable.
I rented American Movie a few months ago and liked it a lot. It’s entirely legit, the subject was honestly portrayed. Apparently, the video release has helped him raise money for Northwestern by having curious viewers purchase Coven (pronounced “COE-ven”).
I have to admire the subject and his umm, coven, for their dedication to their art. It might not be Citizen Kane, but it’s still commendable.
I really liked this movie, although it was sometimes frightening - that guy is quite disturbed. I am from central Wisconsin and I thought the film acurately and unfortunately portrayed the kind of folks you’ll find in rural Wisconsin. You couldn’t write a movie with characters like that.
I loved this movie (although I resisted the urge to buy a copy of “Coven”). Okay, the guy was something of a nut, but he was single-mindedly pursuing his vision. Just think, if that vision turned out to be something anyone else really valued, he’d be regarded as a genius.
I felt a little sorry for his family, especially his kids, but you could see the love these people feel for each other. I ran out of irony about halfway through and just appreciated the story for itself.
People can do their very best and still not win in the end. He at least knows he’s given it his all.
Hey, I used to live 15 blocks from Mark Borchardt! The movie is not a put-on in any way. What parts did you have trouble believing? Maybe I can help you out.
As Roger Ebert said in his review, if Mark Borchardt never makes a feature film, it won’t be for lack of trying.
The movie can be summed up in the one shot that was simultaneously the funniest and most tragic: a close-up of Mark, facing the camera, saying words to the effect of:
“I’ve been trying to make a movie my whole life. Somehow it’s never quite happened. I don’t know why.”
Then he lifts a beer bottle into the frame and takes a long swig.
That movie was freakin’ hilarious. They should show his burnout friend in high school anti-drug classes. To be fair, though, I someone doubt the guy was all that bright to begin with.
Best part of the movie: Mark cleaning up a nasty bathroom and exclaiming something to the effect of “They shat all over the walls!” I about busted a gut when I heard that.