On El Mariachi

Reading:
Robert Rodriguez, Rebel Without a Crew (excerpt)

Question:
Discuss what stands out to you most about El Mariachi (make mention of both Rodriguez's account of the film's production as well as the film itself). Do you think it received attention and acclaim simply because of its budget? Talk about how this issue factors into your response to the film.

On Poison

Readings:

Peter Biskind, Down and Dirty Pictures (excerpt)

Christine Vachon, "Risky Business" from A Killer Life: How an Independent Film Producer Survives Deals and Disasters in Hollywood

Justin Wyatt, "Cinematic/Sexual Transgression: An Interview with Todd Haynes"

Question(s):
1. In his interview with Justin Wyatt, Todd Haynes discusses his approach to genre (the "type" of film being made), narrative (plot/story), and character identification (the relationship between the viewer and the characters on screen). Relate one of his comments back to your own experience watching Poison (your response can also include a mention of the clip from Superstar).

2. Both Peter Biskind and Christine Vachon discuss the way that Poison was received by various audiences. After seeing the film, what is your reaction to the controversy it created? Make specific reference to the Vachon article in your response.

On Sex, Lies and Videotape

Reading:

Alisa Perren, "Sex Lies and Marketing: Miramax and the Development of the Quality Indie Blockbuster." Film Quarterly, Vol. 55, Issue no. 2.

Question:

After reading Alisa Perren's article, identify at least two ways in which Sex, Lies and Videotape transformed independent film. In your opinion, what specific aspects of the film (cite examples - themes, visual style, etc.) allowed it to achieve this kind of success?

Class Canceled - February 6th

Greetings everyone,

For those of you who aren't aware, UWM's day classes have been canceled today due to winter wonderland weather. However, despite the fact that we don't have class you are still required to submit your blog posts by 12 PM. Stay safe and I will see you all next week.

On She's Gotta Have It

Readings:

Marlaine Glicksman, "Lee Way" from Spike Lee: Interviews, ed. Cynthia Fuchs.

John Pierson, "She's Gotta Have It" from Spike, Mike, Slackers & Dikes: A Guided Tour Across a Decade of American Independent Cinema.

One of the defining characteristics of independent cinema is the willingness to represent themes or issues that mainstream cinema traditionally shies away from. Identify and discuss either a theme or issue represented in She's Gotta Have It that stood out to you in this regard, and relate it to either the Lee interview or John Pierson's chapter on the film.