The Screen at Contemporary: Mumblecore
Noun: a style of low-budget film typically characterised the use of nonprofessional actors and naturalistic or improvised performances. We explore the mid 2000’s Independent American Film movement that’s launched the careers of the most cherished voices of Contemporary American Cinema.
Mutual Appreciation (2005)
Dir. Andrew Bujalski
A young musician (Justin Rice) from Boston arrives in New York following the breakup of his band. As he tries to figure out the next step in his career path, he spends time with his friends (Rachel Clift, Andrew Bujalski) and enjoys the romantic overtures of a radio disc jockey (Seung-Min Lee). Think Woody Allen for Generation Y.
Baghead (2008)
Dir. Mark & Jay Duplass
Four struggling actors retreat to a cabin in Big Bear, California, in order to write a screenplay that will make them all stars. Problem is: What happens when their story idea - a horror flick about a group of friends tormented by a villain with a bag over his head - starts to come true? Made for just $5000 this is true independent filmmaking at its best. This helped launch careers of The Duplass Brothers (togetherness) and Greta Gerwig (Frances Ha).
Humpday (2009)
Dir. Lynn Shelton
When Andrew unexpectedly shows up on Ben's doorstep late one night, the two old college friends immediately fall into their old dynamic of heterosexual one-upmanship. To save Ben from domestication, Andrew invites Ben to a party at a sex-positive commune. Everyone there plans on making erotic art films for the local amateur porn festival and Andrew wants in. The debut film of director Lynn Shelton (Your Sisters’ Sister) this is an incredible observation of friendships, expectations, and insecurities.
Tiny Furniture (2005)
Dir. Lena Dunham
Described as second wave Mumblecore, we follow Aurora, an ambitious film school graduate struggling to make sense of life and love upon returning to her parents' home in Manhattan. This smart, witty and achingly realistic portrayal of being young, lost, a bit self-centred and neurotic was the precursor for HBO’s Girls. Not to be missed.