Winter Lilacs [Archive] - DVXuser.com -- The online community for filmmaking

Jason Ramsey

02-13-2008, 08:36 PM

SPOILERS *****

Ok. I really enjoyed this on the whole.

It was pretty beautifully shot, well framed, and all of that, and the execution was very nice.

It was also a "simple" piece that fit the format very well, but in a more non-traditional way.

This is definitely in my pile of good films that I enjoyed watching.

Acting:
Was pretty solid. I thought the male really had great physical acting. His line delivery did not compliment his physicality and look on screen though. I felt it.... I'm not sure how to put it... almost too directly off the page at times, if that makes sense. But, he looked great, and again the visual aspects of his performance were top notch.

The mother had a great look for the camera, and her performance was ok.

OK. I'm thinking that he decided not to put her in a home? Is that what I am supposed to take away from this?

If so... I would suggest taking another little moment to flesh that out a little more thoroughly.

Perhaps when they are dancing together at the end (which is a beautiful image by the way) the phone rings again. It's established what the phone ringing represents for me earlier on, so I would naturally expect it to be the "home" calling again. He doesn't answer... She says something to the effect of "are you going to get that"... He says "It's not important, Ma'". I think that would complete nicely what the conclusion I felt I was supposed to have drawn was. I may be completely wrong about that conclusion :) and probably need to watch again as well, and I definitely plan to. But, it's just an idea that I think would be effective in fleshing out your story fully to the final beat without adding any extra time or anything like that.

But, that to me, would have really completed what I thought was overall a very nicely done piece, that was quite thematic and had it's own distinct feel to it.

Lots of eye candy.

Great work, and thanks for sharing it with us.

Later,
Jason

Mark Harris

02-13-2008, 09:37 PM

Yowsa. Beautiful film. I am going to watch again for more detailed review, but wow. Very nice, unique tone, simple actions. Heartfelt. back soon, just wanted to pop in and say that.

ugafan

02-13-2008, 09:57 PM

i haven't finished watching all the films yet, but this is one of my favorites. great job!

Luis Caffesse

02-14-2008, 12:12 AM

Fantastic work and a very pleasant surprise.
I had no idea what to expect from this film - and had never seen any of your work in the past.

Beautiful story, beautifully shot.
I thought it had a great pace and tone.

I can tell you right now, if I had made this I'd be damn proud of myself.
Really nice work.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-14-2008, 12:17 AM

Hmmm..... this one is good. Really good. Might crack my top 3.
I still have a few to watch though.

The acting is great! The story is very good and the attention to detail is fantastic. That really sold me.

Nice work!

Luis Caffesse

02-14-2008, 12:18 AM

Oh yeah - forgot to add - fantastic location.
I'm not sure if that's the way the place was - or if that was all set dressing....
but it totally sold the story to me.

bosindy

02-14-2008, 12:20 AM

Really great work. You have an offbeat feel to your filmmaking that I really appreciate, I loved the premise. Congrats.

Jason Ramsey

02-14-2008, 12:21 AM

Agree with Luis on that. Visually, this film just rocked.

later,
Jason

Zak Forsman

02-14-2008, 12:23 AM

one of the most unique entries i've seen. such a vivid world you created. and i can see how strongly you empathize with your characters. felt some of the pacing could be looked at, further explored. but on the whole this is a pretty solid piece. well done.

can you tell us a little about the set design? was that an existing location? what about the wallpaper? existing or dressed?

hunter richards

02-14-2008, 01:26 AM

This Film felt top notch. I couldn't help but to really feel sorry for "Chet". Great performance "ma". I like how subtle the "Love" theme was delivered as well. Over all, great photography & lighting, sound was good, acting was great... I give it an A! This could easily be a very watchable feature.

Erik Olson

02-14-2008, 07:54 AM

Wow. Great performances and photography in this one. One of the top entries for sure.

e

Ted Arabian

02-14-2008, 10:35 AM

Hooray for Winter Lilacs!!!

What a touching and sad film. Yet inspiring all the same.

Incredible performances makes this film really work. And the camera work is spotless. Someone here knows what they are doing! Cinematography, editing, the entire execution of this film is flawless.

And the dialogue... I loved it. So real.

Great, great work here! Congrats on a wonderful film.

Best line, "You might have to take that one again!" Perfect comic relief in the given situation. Really well written and directed!

Best to you!

-Ted

wartez

02-14-2008, 11:49 AM

Thanks everyone, we very much appreciate your generous feedback and the opportunity to be amongst such great films.

We shot at this beautiful location in Northeast Minneapolis. The house belongs to the family of our writer/director and is for the most part untouched save for a few additions/subtractions by our great producer Rachel. If you get a chance between watching all the other films, you can learn more about the house in a documentary that Steve and I have been producing for the better part of the last year.

Gabe & Gene Documentary (wip) (http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=110194)

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-14-2008, 12:00 PM

The house was perfect! I'll definitely check that out.

Cheers,

Cliff Wildman

02-14-2008, 12:44 PM

well, i came to post, and everything has pretty much already been said.

great job, one of my favorites so far.

as was said some pacing could be looked at. note that i say 'looked' and not 'changed', etc.

very solid piece overall. this, to me, is what a short film should be, and feel, like.

Matty_g

02-14-2008, 12:46 PM

One of my favorites.
Fantastic look, great cinematography.
A little one to many "ma's" but that can easily be overlooked.
I feel like this piece starts a lot stronger than it finishes.

Can't wait to watch that doc!

ade4all

02-14-2008, 05:20 PM

Brilliant, I love it, the acting, the dialogue, the look and the pacing were all spot on - have seen most of them now and this one really stands out for me - the timing & delivery of some of the last lines at the end of a scene was perfect, had me laughing out loud.
Bravo on making such a simple but beautiful little film, a lot of talent here, having seen a couple of your documentaries and the burger thing you did I can't wait for your next project, any plans?

Blaine

02-14-2008, 06:26 PM

I liked this a lot. Coming from the land of Ed Gein (sort of) I could see this piece going deeper in a long version.

Good shooting.

Gohanto

02-14-2008, 06:50 PM

Very well done. Atmosphere was very unique and worked great with the material. Shots were very good, acting solid, and the location was perfect.

Loved the opening shots, such a simple way to establish his character.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-14-2008, 08:29 PM

I just have to bump this up again. Just watched it for the second time...
This movie is just incredible. The acting is so strong. The attention to detail in every single shot shows just how much patience was put into this.

I would love to hear how long it took you to shoot this. Did you use storyboards?

Really outstanding work!

Cheers,

Mike

Bernie Hipos

02-14-2008, 10:37 PM

This movie rocks! I really enjoyed watching it. Great story too, but what i really love is the image quality, the DOF is sooo perfect! Excellent job on this one.

dannycoxdidit

02-14-2008, 10:41 PM

This is my favorite so far. The acting was stellar, and I couldn't help but feel the reserved frustration from Chet. The opening scene could not have been done better. The house was the perfect location, and the production design was flawless. You created this sad world populated by one and a half. Chet gave off a kind of guilty desperation that really came through. This made me want to watch more and see what happens to Chet and Ma.

I agree with Matty G that the number of Ma's stuck out, but at the same time it kind of reinforces Ma's condition in that Chet feels the need to remind Ma that he's speaking to her by addressing her every time. A sad but humorous and tragically believable short. Very well done guys

Anthony Pierce

02-15-2008, 01:52 AM

I watched this 3 times. The acting was unbelievable. I’m guessing that the woman was a close friend of yours? After the second time I watched it, the bathroom scene really makes this a special piece. Well done..

Good Sam

Zim

02-15-2008, 05:40 PM

This one is good. From start to finish. A sad story in a way, but one that sure brings out the meaning of love. Wow! Both great actors too.

Drew Ott

02-15-2008, 07:26 PM

This film was excellent.

There was a lot of character depth and the story was interesting to see played out.

Aside from great acting and story, the cinematography was just beautiful. It looked quite cinematic and I'll be giving it many more viewings.

Chris Messineo

02-15-2008, 10:22 PM

Wow. This was phenomenal.

First, the story is great. It so subtle - beautiful and painful.

Second, the performances are amazing. The two of them just broke my heart.

Lastly, technically I just loved everything about it - the cinematography, the edit, the score.

Really, an amazing short film.

This is the kind of film I aspire to make some day.

Chris Messineo

02-15-2008, 10:36 PM

I'm back already.

I looked through the thread and I apologize if I missed it, but could you tell us a little about what this shot with (camera, 35mm adapter, and lights) and where you found your actors?

KenV

02-16-2008, 04:44 AM

I really liked this. Audio levels were good, and story was insightful. Even if this wasn't what most were thinking for "love fest."

Matty_g

02-16-2008, 05:00 AM

I'll second chris's questions about the camera/lighting package you guys had.

hoz

02-16-2008, 11:16 AM

this film was awesome!

story- it was all about love, not the love he wished for, but real love.

acting - chet nailed it. from the picture " i think we need to do another one." to aiding his mom with the bath to the phone call with the nursing home which was spot on ( laughed to how he hung up the phone to the second call, too funny ) , to the dance at the end. the mom was great too, that little smile she gave after hearing about chet's "date", too cool.

storytelling- you did so many good things in this film - the clothes, the house, the lighting, the audio, the weather on tv ( which was so damn perfect - especially with the added look of a fargo -ish winter in the background ) the flowers, the old school popcorn, the paper ad, the ready to heat food, etc, etc, you had like ten extra characters running around the film at all times, even the pacing was perfect, the story moved along just right.

upon thinking about your film, so much care and work is evident here, its like watching a pro shortstop, he works so hard he makes it look easy and effortless, like he's not even there, thats how your film was, it was all about the story and you as a director weren't even there, because it was so real.

i give you much credit, can't wait to see your next film!
many thanks!

Zak Forsman

02-16-2008, 11:19 AM

I'll second chris's questions about the camera/lighting package you guys had.

the shorts that david has posted in the user section are HVX/M2. so, i'm guessing.....

hoz

02-16-2008, 11:51 AM

he has other films? gotta check 'em out! btw zak, when are you going to post your film's extra minutes? guess i should ask you this on your film's thread....

Matt Harris

02-16-2008, 03:23 PM

Excellent pacing, sad/disturbing story, i liked this a ton.
Very professional looking and sounding, no complaints at all.
I really like both actors and found the whole scenario believable.
The scary thing is my girlfriend's neighbors are a spitting image of these
two characters so this is hitting home for me. Great work!

pmark23

02-17-2008, 07:53 AM

Great direction, camera work and production design. The close-ups of the phone appeared blurry, but maybe that was due to the compression? The sound was very professional -- the best I've heard so far.

I was amazed at how filmic this looked. Maybe you can go into some details on how you shot this?

Easily a top contender. Congrats!

Zim

02-17-2008, 09:02 AM

The only problem I had was him yelling at his mom "just take the f*cking picture"
The rest of the film he doesn't act like that towards his mom. Did you have a reason for him being so pissed off and saying the F word to his Mom?

Other than that this is one of my favorites.

Chris Messineo

02-17-2008, 10:12 AM

The only problem I had was him yelling at his mom "just take the f*cking picture"

I don't think I can adequately express how much I loved that moment - when we see for an instant all the rage and hostility he has bottled up about his mother and his life.

Zim

02-17-2008, 11:30 AM

I don't think I can adequately express how much I loved that moment - when we see for an instant all the rage and hostility he has bottled up about his mother and his life.

Ok,,,,very good point Chris.

stephen_nugent

02-17-2008, 11:45 AM

Touching film, great cinematography, very believable characters and well written story. Humor and tragedy blend well, you've really nailed this one.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-17-2008, 08:08 PM

This made my top three.

Well done!

Hans Moleman

02-17-2008, 09:54 PM

I loved your film. There was so much charm, that I HAD to vote for it. really, awkwardly, beautiful.

wartez

02-18-2008, 12:03 AM

we are all quite humbled by the unbelievably positive feedback from this community of extremely talented filmmakers. it is an honor to be able to share this film with you and take part in such a diverse and brilliant collection of shorts. thanks to all of you that had a chance to view and comment on winter lilacs, it really means a lot.

if there was any confusion, i was the dp and editor on this. my friend steve wrote and directed. we found out about lovefest very late in the game and steve was able to pump out a brilliant script. with help from our producer, all the pieces sort of fell into place just in time for the deadline.

some technicals:

we shot with the sony ex1 and letus extreme. older nikon lenses, 35mm 1.4/85mm 1.8 and 105mm 2.5. a couple of cool light CL-MF0150's and some arri 650's and an arri 1k were used for lighting. max becker was my gaffer and he did a brilliant job.

i think steve might come on here and say some more about the film...

kurtmo

02-18-2008, 05:10 AM

Well done. Excellent camerawork. Compelling story. I thought your actors were right on. I caught the weather on the TV Are you folk from MN too?

Herman Witkam

02-18-2008, 06:05 AM

Very well done! Sparse use of music, nice framing, well lit.

At 2:25 I would've liked the focus to be on the phone while the lead was looking at it, to make it a little more clear that he's watching the phone, but now I'm just nitpicking ;-)

Maximus

02-18-2008, 07:12 AM

Very impressive film in every way. Sad story well told. Can't get this one outta my head! LOL.

I now officially have a top five. It's gonna be hard to narrow it down.

Look forward to more films from you.

The Rodent

02-18-2008, 07:15 AM

The entirety of this package is top notch. The story and acting were both wonderful, the set and costumes easily sold the story, and the photography (loved the lighting) was superb.

My only real critique, and I saw someone said this earlier, is that the idea of the nursing home was brought up but then not really referred to again. Once the credits rolled, that particular string to the story still felt like it was hanging.

Regardless, excellent work.

Mark Johnson

02-18-2008, 07:42 AM

You guys have blown me away. Good God, this is great cinematography Wartez. If you can post some pics of your setups it would be most appreciated. What a marvelous film this is and what a powerful team you make. If this is what you do when you're rushed I shudder to think of what you are capable of with a full menu of preproduction. Bravo.

mentatDUKE

02-18-2008, 12:03 PM

This is a really great film. The art direction, writing, and cinematography was 1st class. The acting was really good. Especially from the mother. The performance was invisible. I didn't "see" an actress at all. Excellent direction.

I love that you told a very unique story, yet made it feel so real and relatable.

This is definitely one of my top films. Great job.

Danielleus

02-18-2008, 02:33 PM

Hey,

Just caught the piece. And watched it again. Loved it. Absolutely loved it. Acting, direction, amazing lighting, camera, performances (I know, I already mentioned, but thought I needed to mention it twice), pacing, music. All upper tier. I really hope you go other places with this sad, funny, and simply beautiful piece.

However, I hate to rain on the overwhelmingly good responses (for which I also think the piece and you guys deserve all the praise you get) but I had a slight issue with the story. Bear with me and please tell me where I missed something and I'll gladly go back through this film again to find it.

So Chet is having his picture taken at the beginning for a personals ad. Does he actually want to get a date or is it just to show his mother? Then, when the elderly home people call we can only assume that he wanted, at some point, to put her in there. Is this the moment, when the guy calls, that we discover that maybe he doesn't want to put her in there afterall? Finally, when he does leave (for his date) he seems torn outside. If he wasn't going to actually go would he be that distraught (as it seemed to me) and wouldn't he just go somewhere and wait?

I think I see the character development and love the way this ends. The love is there and the sacrifice that a son is willing to make for the mother he loves. I see and believe that. I was just wondering where we see him change, or if he ever wasn't the son we see him as.

But despite that a lovely and unnerving piece that I that is just outstanding. Can't wait to see your other pieces, DVX or otherwise.

MattinSTL

02-18-2008, 03:58 PM

80 replies... 1458 views... The little engine that could?

This entry is secretly the best submission in the whole damn shootin' match... in my humble opinion.

I bow to you... man... incredible.

How anybody could express anything less then utter amazement at the quality of the festival entries this round is... uh... I'm speechless.

OK... I'm trying to put in some element of criticism on every entry that I comment on... so my only niggle here is I would have liked to HEAR the commercial audio change when he's telling her about his date. That's it man... pretty tiny thing to come up with huh?

What I liked? The casting is perfect... I actually like that he lost his temper early on because that's a very intelligent way to grab the audience attention early... and it makes sense anyway... it belongs... it's not merely a device, but rather an interesting element of the story to better define how hard it must be to be that man.

The lighting... WOW... the lighting! Probably the best lit short in the fest... artistic and motivated... stunning... the little fork shadow? That's how much I look at details... and you provided a feast for the eyes. You must have ND'd the heck out of those windows to get that ratio when he goes out for his date... and he's outside of the window mustering up the will to continue the facade...

I'm in absolute awe of you man. Truly. This is absolutely spectacular... the sound was fantastic... both environmentally atmospheric and simultaneously intimate. When he yells in the beginning I got goosebumps at how well that was handled sonically. This was just flat-out excellent.

I can't get over the two actors... this one was just amazing. I think you just got my top slot.

My only real critique, and I saw someone said this earlier, is that the idea of the nursing home was brought up but then not really referred to again. Once the credits rolled, that particular string to the story still felt like it was hanging.

I hope I got this right, but is he really hoping to meet a girl and have some kind of life? He really DID plan out the nursing home thing, but since he was right in front of her he couldn't talk about it at that time... AND more impressive is that it furthers the whole persona of that person who is really fighting a duality... I didn't see that as a story element hanging at all. She's going in a nursing home in a few days... and he will hopefully be able to have some elements of a normal life, but I don't see him forgetting about her either.

Drew Ott

02-18-2008, 04:19 PM

I agree with Matt that this is excellent. I've already said so but I've watched it 7-8 times already. Great job.

I wish my lighting would look like that.

sanzrigel

02-18-2008, 05:02 PM

Hello everyone, I was the writer/director on this piece. i thought i'd jump on here and take the load off of wartez and answer some of the questions about the story.

First I just want to thank everyone for watching the movie and providing incredible, intelligent feedback. I'm brand new to this forum, but it was immediately apparent that it's a terrific community with amazing talent.

Regarding the phone call/nursing home part of the story...MattinSTL just responded with a spot on approach to the story (and an insightful review, thanks Matt!)...

I hope I got this right, but is he really hoping to meet a girl and have some kind of life? He really DID plan out the nursing home thing, but since he was right in front of her he couldn't talk about it at that time... AND more impressive is that it furthers the whole persona of that person who is really fighting a duality... I didn't see that as a story element hanging at all. She's going in a nursing home in a few days... and he will hopefully be able to have some elements of a normal life, but I don't see him forgetting about her either.

My intentions were to show that no matter what, Chet will soon have to put his mother into a home. A decision that is always looming over Chet's head. Ironically, instead of a woman calling him, he get's a call from his main concern in life - his mother's health. And due to his mother being right there he can't speak about it, so he comes up with a quick way to sidestep that problem while also impressing his mother.

So the effects of this decision -
He has delayed putting his mother into a home. He will certainly have to do some explaining to the home. Most importantly though, at this point in the story Chet is hellbent on showing his mother that he can get a girlfriend and isn't thinking realistically about things.

And finally, excuse this long rant, but to clear up Danielleus' comment about when Chet actually goes out on his date and waits outside. I never thought of it as Chet contemplating the nursing home decision. Instead, he knows his mom is forgetful, so he was just wasting a moment before returning. I suppose the nursing home would be on his mind, like it always is, but at this moment it's not on his immediate thoughts.

I hope this sheds some light on the story. All of the feedback is great and the critique's are valid and helpful. Some people on this forum and friends/family have shown some confusion on this particular aspect of the story. And while it was a goal to make a subtle movie, it was never a goal to confuse. So it's good to see where that is happening and is definitely something to address in future stories.

Thanks again!

Robert Eldon

02-18-2008, 07:42 PM

Winter Lilacs
I didn’t think I would like this one based on the poster, but was pleasantly surprised. Really good composition and color. Great editing.

The acting was fantastic. Both characters were believable. The relationship between the boy and his mother was a very unique perspective and there was depth of character with both even for a 6 minute movie. My favorite line ‘I want some milk’. Favorite shot was near the end through the window and lace curtains.

I’m curious, near the end, when she says ‘That sounds nice Chet’, and then smiles, is she just fooling him or what was that smile for?

Great job with this. Definitely in my top 12.

MattinSTL

02-18-2008, 08:33 PM

I’m curious, near the end, when she says ‘That sounds nice Chet’, and then smiles, is she just fooling him or what was that smile for?

Great job with this. Definitely in my top 12.

Chet has left the room to prepare for WHATEVER... maybe it's dinner... maybe go to the bathroom... maybe put his head in his hands and try to muster up more composure, most likely as he has to do throughout every day of this "adventure".

The mother isn't all there anymore... so it's frustrating for Chet to deal with it and the mother has little self awareness... but she can sense that Chet's efforts are in the spirit of love and while she may have low awareness of her surroundings she can still appreciate Chet's efforts to show her love and attention... in her "broken" way.

I think this short is borderline too smart for the average audience... I think it is to this genre was Arrested Development was to sitcoms... it was too good for TV... and that was sad also.

I've watched this at least a half dozen times in the past day and my girlfriend and I just watched about 12 more shorts in a row... starting with this one... and ENDING with this one... with my statement, "do you see WHY this one is so good?"

And she agreed... it's her favorite also.

The short is friggin' brilliant... probably too smart for it's own good.

The front porch flower throw was AWESOME... how you see the contrast of Chet's reluctantly defeated nature... and his mom's total lack of environmental and time awareness.

Man it's just so freakin' good... I can't say enough about it. While I loved some other shorts that are more "fun" then this one... the time flies by just the same. It's extremely entertaining as a filmmaker's film.

PS... tell that lady she is a hero... man, how did you find such a character? Chet is perfectly cast and she is just an amazing find.

The Rodent

02-18-2008, 09:52 PM

My intentions were to show that no matter what, Chet will soon have to put his mother into a home. A decision that is always looming over Chet's head. Ironically, instead of a woman calling him, he get's a call from his main concern in life - his mother's health. And due to his mother being right there he can't speak about it, so he comes up with a quick way to sidestep that problem while also impressing his mother.

So the effects of this decision -
He has delayed putting his mother into a home. He will certainly have to do some explaining to the home. Most importantly though, at this point in the story Chet is hellbent on showing his mother that he can get a girlfriend and isn't thinking realistically about things.

Ah, ok, that clears things up. I just watched it again, and I see what you're talking about. Much of the storytelling was subtle enough that during the initial viewing I could justify Chet's motivations/intentions in multiple ways (e.g. on the phone was he more embarrassed about not being able to get a girl, or was he mainly trying to hide the nursing home from his mother).

Overall I give you kudos for making an excellent example of how to show a story rather than tell it. It expects more from the viewer, and if the viewer is up to the task, there's an excellent payoff.

Drew Ott

02-18-2008, 10:21 PM

To be honest the weakest part of the film for me was the first 10-15 seconds. Compared to the rest it just isn't as interesting. I see how it makes sense in the story but it doesn't grab me right away. I think the spots on the mirror he is looking into sort of looked like compression errors and that's honestly the only bad thing I can say about this.

I love how you cross the line for the close-up of Chet when he is telling her about his date, whether that was intentional or not.

ugafan

02-19-2008, 01:33 AM

I'm in absolute awe of you man. Truly. This is absolutely spectacular... the sound was fantastic... both environmentally atmospheric and simultaneously intimate. When he yells in the beginning I got goosebumps at how well that was handled sonically. This was just flat-out excellent.

i thought that was awesome also. i would like to know more about how you guys did the audio for this film.

MattinSTL

02-19-2008, 05:49 AM

My guess is that it was simply a good boom job.

When I listened through the 280s I was blown away... when I listened through my regular computer speakers it sounded more "normal". The mix could be pumped up a bit.

I'd still take a good boom job over the very best ADR any day. Another great flick is Remember When... and the audio is very "there" but the problem through my cans is that it's TOO there... many of the entries suffer one of two audio problems... either weak, sporatic boomed/location audio, or else totally fake mono-perfection. This flick sounds good but I'd like them to pump up the mix... there are times where computer speakers are about to struggle, but fortunately it's more then good enough.

On my most recent viewing of this I do think the location sound isn't AS good as I first said, but it's very good.

Listening again I think the opening yell was simply a split channel controlled mix. Meaning... the yell came through OK because you heard a low setting to prevent a blown peak (on that channel). That was a fairly isolated event... it wasn't like a whisper to a scream in the same line.

About the first 10 to 15 seconds... this young man is almost broken. He's been raised in a religious house where you honor your parents, but he is awkward. Let's face it... this actor is really too good looking to be awkward, but there are plenty of real people who fit that bill... we see the photo of Jesus, and the dingy look of the house right from the start... the son is getting ready to take a photo to hopefully meet a girl, "checking his teeth" (he is insecure), and within his current situation he probably has trouble smiling... which is reconfirmed when she keeps asking Chet to smile and he says he is while he clearly isn't... pleasing his mother, yet again, we see in the new picture that he smiled, and the smile looks real, but most likely it was just the next shot after he felt bad for yelling, so he got his courage back to fake a smile that happens to look good. I think the first opening scene does more to set the feel then you realize.

Drew Ott

02-19-2008, 06:39 PM

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-19-2008, 06:51 PM

I'm referring to the few seconds before he walks over to his mother to take the picture.

It's great looking back and maybe that was intended, but it didn't hook completely. Luckily most peoples' attention spans are at least 10 seconds.
Wow. Right off the bat I was interested in what I was seeing.

I hope this one places well.
It was as perfect as I could imagine. I have zero issues with this one.

:thumbup:

MattinSTL

02-19-2008, 09:49 PM

I brought my laptop to a pre-pro meeting tonight... I've been to a bunch of read-throughs with some actors that don't seem to be "bringing it"... and I've tried to convey how good they need to be if we're to do what they THINK we can do with the project.

Anyway... showing everybody this short felt like I was aiming the Death Star at planet Basket Ball.

"Let me ask you guys a question? How good do you think you are at this craft we call... film making?"

*hits play*

Zzzzzzttt.... BOOM!

sanzrigel

02-19-2008, 10:27 PM

Matt, I can't say how much we appreciate your comments regarding this movie. It's a huge payoff to have someone respond to our movie like you have. I mean, you get it. You can answer questions on here as good as, if not better, than any of us can. And that says something.

We really appreciate it.

wartez

02-20-2008, 04:04 PM

to all that viewed,

you rock.

mattinstl you're awesome.

so is the guy talking about shortstops.

sanzrigel you're a master. believe that stuff.

Larry Rutledge

02-20-2008, 04:13 PM

Beautiful, loved it, fantastic. I can't add/detract from any of the other comments, so I won't even try.

This film and Remember When both took me into the world of the film and left me believing I was watching something real, as opposed to watching a story be told.

Fantastic job guys. Looking forward to more from you ... why don't you guys move to Northern California and help me with my projects? :thumbsup:

gvansant

02-21-2008, 12:06 AM

Everything about this film says, 'look, I'm telling the truth as I see it.' There's this beautiful, beautiful honestly about Winter Lilacs. And when you're honest about the drawbacks of life, that's a beautiful thing. When you try to make everything pretty, it ends up seeming really shoddy.

Superb filmmaking. (Four Stars)

sanzrigel

02-21-2008, 05:39 PM

A couple of people have asked about the actors in the movie.

The part of Chet was written with Greg in mind. Greg completely understood the script. He knew that the humor in it and sincerity of it was in downplaying the actions. Simplicity was key for both of the actors. Greg is a hilarious stand up comic, he has great comedic instincts so he knew when to take the comic bits a little further - while maintaining the character's believability.

As for the Mother, I had never met Carol before she showed up to read through the script. Our producer Rachel tracked her down, she knew what we were looking for. Carol, like Greg, is a comic. So again, she wasn't scared to show herself in what some would think to be an unflattering light. And she was great. Again, a very understated performance - when I asked her to sit in the recliner for the fifth time and watch the weather channel, she joked that her job had gotten too hard and she wouldn't do it. To be honest I may have just made that up, but it is something I could see her saying. We all loved working with Carol and her slight performance here comes across as heartbreaking and genuine. That was all her.

Thanks to all that commented on the actors. In my eyes they made the movie. And I plan to pass along the comments throughout this thread to both of them.

Edgen

02-21-2008, 11:25 PM

In a weird, cool way, this film rocked. One of my favs. Thanks for sharing you film with all of us.

/j

Simon Höfer

02-22-2008, 07:42 AM

I think there is not much left I can say about this movie! It is just great! I really really enjoyed it! Definately in my top3 :)

wartez

02-22-2008, 01:02 PM

This is Chet eating a grilled cheese sandwich.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9539/picture5tw8.jpg

Jack Daniel Stanley

02-22-2008, 05:12 PM

Great look and great art direction.

Nicely shot, scored and acted.

My one nitpick with the writing was “ma … ma … ma …” just way too many for my ear.

Ultimately I didn’t get it though. She seemed either oblivious to or not to care too much about the fact that he was supposedly dating. So I didn’t see the reason for this rouse. If she was sad or worried about him not finding a girl then it would be sweet. If it was a deception to explain the time he spent setting up her retirement home stay then that might make sense too, but again she didn’t seem to know or care where he went … so why not just set it up then tell her she was going to the circus or the ballet or anywhere. If he was doing it to make her feel good before he sent her away that might make sense too … but again I couldn’t tell that she cared, so it didn’t add up to anything for me and we never saw him follow through on anything. When he pretended to go on a date, I thought maybe he was going to meet with a person at the retirement home to sign some papers … but he just stood on the porch and came back in, again leaving me wondering what the point was to the whole thing. Not saying I have to have an ending wrapped in a neat bow, but with none of the intentions clear I had no idea what you were exploring thematically, or plot wise or anything.

Still it looked amazing and had a great feel and tone to it. While it seems like I have lots of company on my feelings on the look and feel, seems like I m in the minority with my story / motivation issues. Maybe I have watched and commented on too many today :shocked:

Simon Höfer

02-23-2008, 04:12 AM

Ultimately I didn’t get it though. She seemed either oblivious to or not to care too much about the fact that he was supposedly dating. So I didn’t see the reason for this rouse. If she was sad or worried about him not finding a girl then it would be sweet. If it was a deception to explain the time he spent setting up her retirement home stay then that might make sense too, but again she didn’t seem to know or care where he went … so why not just set it up then tell her she was going to the circus or the ballet or anywhere. If he was doing it to make her feel good before he sent her away that might make sense too … but again I couldn’t tell that she cared, so it didn’t add up to anything for me and we never saw him follow through on anything. When he pretended to go on a date, I thought maybe he was going to meet with a person at the retirement home to sign some papers … but he just stood on the porch and came back in, again leaving me wondering what the point was to the whole thing. Not saying I have to have an ending wrapped in a neat bow, but with none of the intentions clear I had no idea what you were exploring thematically, or plot wise or anything.

Hey Jack, did you see the one smile from her, after he told her how the date was? It is at 5.23. I think thats what the whole date-setup is about. He made her smile for 2 seconds and I think it was worth it.

sanzrigel

02-23-2008, 12:11 PM

Jack -
Agree with you about the "Ma's". I plan on editing around at least a few of them. I wrote the thing and still it bugs the hell out of me.

It's a shame the movie completely alienated you. Can't win 'em all right? But thanks for taking the time to comment and the honest feedback is great.

Cheers!

Jack Daniel Stanley

02-23-2008, 12:29 PM

Let me clarify - was not completely alienated at all. It's quite engaging.

It's just that the throughline of action (what people want and why) and whatever you were exploring thematically were just not clear to me. Of course the thematic territory doesn't need to jump out and hit me over the head anyway but without a clear take on either throughline or theme (speaking of just my experience) I felt kind of lost and like I missed out on whatever it was at the core of the material that made you excited enough about the material to want to share it in the first place, i.e., what's really at the heart of the piece. Because the piece is good and interesting, not "getting it" was frustrating.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-23-2008, 01:31 PM

I really think this is just about his unconditional love for his "Ma".
The man helps her bathe for crying out loud. :D

He wants her to think that he has a life and that she isn't holding him back. Even though nothing could be further from the truth.

It's probably not for everyone but I really don't think there is any hidden message. It's definitely an odd relationship, I'll give you that. That's what makes this movie so great though.

Loved it.

Mike

Sprocketboy

02-23-2008, 01:38 PM

Winter Lilacs is one of my favorites in this fest. The awkwardness of the story and characters' actions make it 'honest' and at times brutally honest. I felt like I was reading a well written story, where I had to fill in the blanks and I like that very much. Great job!

stephen_nugent

02-23-2008, 01:46 PM

This film is well crafted and it's strength is that it tells a believable plot that can be easily identifiable and also resonates on different levels. I live on a relatively small island where mothers will hate your girlfriends while you're growing up, then as they grow old they will persist on you going steady with one for the sake of grandchildren and then when they lose it, you'll try to please what's left in them with that idea, while pondering on shoving them off into a home or not. I've dealt with an old people's home in a recent docu and saw first hand how the home arrangement is common even though family ties are strong here. Apart from the many "ma's" this film took me on a trip.

Curugon

02-23-2008, 02:19 PM

Still trying to decide, but this one may be my fav of the fest. Perfectly simple but engaging story, wonderful acting, top notch camerawork. I think it's phenomenally hard to evoke an (earned) emotional response from a short film; this one really got to me.

The ma's didn't bother me, for what it's worth.

Great job.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-23-2008, 02:50 PM

The ma's didn't bother me, for what it's worth.

Great job.
Me neither. I didn't even think about it actually. I was too caught up in the movie I guess.

Drew Ott

02-23-2008, 03:24 PM

I think there were maybe two ma's too many.

Jack-

To me, the film is about Chet trying to leave a good lasting impression on his mom before he sends her off. He wants her to see him as successful and not have to worry about him once she leaves. As he tells her about his "date," he continues talking about it until he we see that she is happy for him in that smile (as Simon mentioned earlier).

I think the reason she isn't shown happy earlier is because she isn't yet. Chet has yet to succeed at this point. Once he sees that she will be happy without him (or happy enough), he can let her go.

Next scene is of them dancing. They had just eaten a candle-lit dinner of microwavable food and it is probably one of their last nights together. Chet appears to be quite sad that she has to go while she dances oblivious, just happy to be with him. I thought the ending was beautiful.

hunter richards

02-23-2008, 03:29 PM

That looks like you chet.

Bryce A

02-23-2008, 11:56 PM

Hey, loved the flick. Probably one of my favs. Having had a grandfather with alzheimers, I can definitely relate to chet's relationship with his ma. I think it is fairly obvious that she suffers from some form of mental illness. The fact that he stands outside for 30 secs and comes back with a date story clenches this for me.

I found the story sad, touching, and even a bit creepy. Poor Chet. ...wtf is wrong with this world. ...maybe I'm just depressed.

I have no real critiques for your film. So, those are just my two cents on the story.

Great, fantastic and wonderful work.

MattinSTL

02-24-2008, 08:49 PM

I could have used a couple less "ma"s as well... but I didn't have a problem with it... and it's kind of sad to say, but I totally "got it". This short worked for me on a lot of levels. I think Chet has unresolved issues with his life... you're looking at him as a more stable person then he is... again, raised in a religious household where you honor your parents can create some confusion and insecurities... especially before you add other elements... such as his mother, that he wants to show love and honor... is slipping. That doesn't mean that you wouldn't still grasp at ideas like impressing her... even if it's mostly falling on deaf ears. Have you ever told somebody something that you realized they may not fully appreciate... almost just to hear yourself say it?

I try to bring interesting elements into my elderly parents' lives all the time... and it never works out. They don't see things the way I do, but I still keep trying to bring them some color anyway... even if it's always black and white by the time I leave.

Chet is dealing with his own frustrations while he's running on auto-pilot from his upbringing. I think that gradual loss and confusion is the point... kind of like the Alzheimer's flick from this past year.

hoz

02-24-2008, 09:34 PM

... Have you ever told somebody something that you realized they may not fully appreciate... almost just to hear yourself say it?

yeah, so true! i think most advice that is given is much more for the speaker's own behalf than to whomever the advice is being given...
didn't think there were too many ma's. i thought the whole thing worked so well because it screamed real life. in six minutes this film depicted a littany of issues Chet had to deal with. And i feel he was dealing with them most heroically too.

"chet" deserves his own show, if you ask me... he worked because most of us can relate, and in my opinion i wish to act as well as he did too.

Curugon

02-24-2008, 09:53 PM

"chet" deserves his own show, if you ask me...

Agreed. He was such a well-realized character, both from a script and performance standpoint. I never saw "acting," as it were - just a very real character.

Brian Parker

02-25-2008, 12:10 AM

Great film. Beatuiful shots and the CC added the extra touch that really sets the tone for Chet's life. Well acted and written. Great execution. Thanks, now I'm feeling melancholy. Great job.

Jared Meyer

02-25-2008, 12:39 AM

I haven't had time to comment on all of the threads but this is one of the last ones I saw and boy I'm glad I did. You got one of my votes. I hope this has been getting the attention it deserves.

This was great. Such awesome quirky characters and a really sweet story. There's no critiques I can make, this was really top notch.

I want to see more from you, man. Congrats on a great short.

Norm Sanders

02-25-2008, 02:19 AM

Holy crap is all I've got to say! I loved this! Nearly everything about it was spot on! Great attention to detail, nothing over acted in my opinion, and had a cool story line/message to it as well.

Two serious thumbs up!

Ted Arabian

02-25-2008, 07:46 PM

Hooray and congrats for the recognition that Winter Lilacs received!!!

I loved this film.

I am so happy that it was recognized by the panel!!!

Congrats!

-Ted

Michael Anthony Horrigan

02-25-2008, 07:51 PM

I have to say, I'm disappointed that this one didn't place.
At least it was recognized.

Enter it into as many festivals as you can!

Best of luck,

Mike

Jack Daniel Stanley

02-25-2008, 07:56 PM

Glad this great film was recognized and will be taking home some booty.

Much deserved. Congratulations.

sanzrigel

02-25-2008, 08:24 PM

Thanks to all that supported us on this flick, it's really appreciated.

On the highs of this recognition I'm going to go get drunk, gamble on expensive shit, kick my habit, and then relapse, all in the course of the next two and half hours.

Cheers...

tmnt

02-25-2008, 09:05 PM

What a touching movie. I haven't seen all the flicks yet but it stuns me you didn't place too.

Normally, perhaps because I'm a jackass, I watch most flicks and I'm too distracted by directing faults and what not too really see the story but not with yours (spot on directing btw) as the story and characters were so dear. I'm yet to do a short where the actors can run free, it must have been bliss.

Send this one to every festival you can.

Slimothy

02-25-2008, 09:14 PM

Wartez you guys rocked and I'm surprised you didn't place.

You are a force to be reckoned with, my friend.

Norm Sanders

02-25-2008, 09:47 PM

I too am surprised it didn't place, but am at least glad it got recognized. There was TOUGH competition out there, and only three could place, so there's always going to be films that folks think should have, but just got squeeked out, etc.

Congrats on a film well done.

hoz

02-25-2008, 09:53 PM

enter this into as many cool fests as you can find, they'd be too damn lucky to have it.

Drew Ott

02-25-2008, 09:55 PM

This was my #1 and I'm happy you guys were recognized. I think you could do really well in some other film festivals so don't stop here.

Mark Harris

02-25-2008, 10:00 PM

Really happy you were recognized. A fantastic piece of work and well-deserved.

MattinSTL

02-25-2008, 10:12 PM

Congrats dudes... maybe you already knew this, but you're on your way... no... really. I wish I could put something like that together... I'm inspired to at least try.

Brian Parker

02-25-2008, 10:15 PM

Congrats on your recognition...you got skill, and ya got moxie...you're going places.

smashedburrito

02-26-2008, 07:01 AM

My favorite film! Congrats on the recognition, I can't wait to see your next piece!

Cliff Wildman

02-26-2008, 09:06 AM

hey guys, wow what an entry! i am very happy that you at least got some recognition. this is what a short should be - a self contained story and universe conveying so much in so little time.

excellent job on all levels, i look forward to seeing what you guys got next!

Sprocketboy

02-26-2008, 09:16 AM

I wanted this film to win top honor. I'm glad it was recognized on some level.

hunter richards

02-26-2008, 09:58 AM

I was a little bummed you guys didnt get 1st place. Next time shoot with a red?
(I can feel the tension brewing...its just a joke)

Riley Stearns

02-26-2008, 03:25 PM

Easily my favorite of the fest. Her smile at the end made the film for me. Well done.

wartez

03-01-2008, 04:37 PM

Bravo on making such a simple but beautiful little film, a lot of talent here, having seen a couple of your documentaries and the burger thing you did I can't wait for your next project, any plans?

Thanks everyone, lovefest was a great experience for all of us!

Our little gang is heading up to nyc this week to start working on a feature film. We start shooting the 1st week of April. If anyone is around and up for working on a fun micro budget project in new yolk they should let me know! We're looking for an audio genius and other talented fun people!

:thumbup: