These five films all take refreshingly different approaches to the classic coming of age arc. Lighthearted and charming, these films are all about learning to understand a large and impossible world from the small corners in which we live.
Independent Film Review: June and Chill 2021
Vernard Fields had a hand in curation for this month, and his contributions alongside some additions from Black filmmakers in the Cincy area, has contributed to a very solid lineup for June, with an emphasis on depicting Black lives in the local Cincinnati area. There’s a mix of shorts and brief episodes that operate in tandem within larger series. You’ll get a taste of the real world, plus some zombie-like symptoms. Please enjoy the work of some novice filmmakers who have poured their all into these creations.
Melanin Vox Episode I (Perception)
Despite its narrow scope, Melanin Vox Episode I could be subject to a variety of interpretations. The subject is simple enough: a man, confined to his home during the pandemic, is overstimulated by the news. He begins to see signs everywhere emphasizing the KKK and All Lives Matter- movements advocating for White Supremacy.
The decision to shoot on film (or perhaps with a grainy filter) is a positive one, creating a relaxed look in the home. The blue glow of the cell phone and television that, if shot digitally, might come off as aggressive and gritty, seems utterly cinematic.
A decision is made when he puts on his headphones and walks out of frame with a final shake of the head. With respect to its title, Perception might be the idea that fear-mongering in the media is constant, but it’s up to oneself to decide how much of that catastrophic content is internalized. Only four minutes in length, its brevity proves a major asset to its emotional punch.
Episode II: This Subtle Peace
Episode II finds a new slate of actors in a new home. People are dressed up for what appears to be a holiday. This is a one shot, one act play with not a word of dialogue. A hypnotic musical score soothes or provokes depending on what’s on screen. It’s shot with a black TV screen vignette over it, giving the audience the voyeuristic-like experience of watching the home through a pair of outsider lenses. I found, at times, that it also gave the impression of a statement-making holiday commercial you tend to see around Christmastime. The clean decor, the simple tracking shot, the respectful interactions- it’s staged only in the sense that the camera had to know where to go, while the characters carry the depth.
The connection between Episode I and Episode II is established when one of the family members comes home half beaten and burned. The grandmother fusses over him for a bit, and then tells him to change. Perhaps I was expecting some miracle whereby the son comes down the stairs fully healed, but reality caught me off guard. It finishes with the quote, “no matter the pain and the evil in the world, may you always find peace within the home.”
It establishes no real connections to the circumstances of the violence, only the sanctity of the home that he returns to. I appreciate how unpretentious this conclusion really is. It’s an experiential short, rather than a declarative one. I look forward to Episode III.
Game Night
Game night with the crew can be hit or miss. Alliances form and are betrayed within an instant. One thing’s for sure: hidden hostilities find a way to reveal themselves.
In this short, a group of friends has some tension brewing under the surface. A game of charades is the outlet for this pent-up aggression. And yes, someone will get a drink thrown in their face.
Despite the sound editing being a little off here and there, the dynamic of the performers really works in this film’s favor. The chemistry between the actors makes the relationships feel genuine, with Alisha Lee’s performance being the standout (she was also one of the writers). The R&B music-filled, drink-pouring intro is very effective in setting the stage for camaraderie, and perhaps a few drinks too many. The same is true for the finale, which reuses the same song from the beginning.
I ended up getting a lot more context about the supporting characters from the Behind the Scenes footage than what ended up in the final cut, but it’s probably best that you were thrown right into the party and forced to make those sorts of assumptions for yourself. Overall, this is a breezy short with no harm but some party foul.
Holy Zombie
Holy Zombies is a faith-based cautionary tale warning of the potential dangers of seeking partners purely for sex rather than genuine connection. Zane (a well-rounded Ryan Chavez Richmond) develops a severe rash on his skin that is visible only to himself, until he comes across the principled Mya who is also able to see the rash and point out his behavioral flaws.
For a short so rooted in Christian teachings, it is not too preachy, which the director mentioned in his post-film commentary as being a major goal of his. By following the principle of “show-don’t-tell”, the viewer has autonomy in coming to their own conclusions about Zane’s actions. There’s a synthy score by Kristian Garrett that works really well in the film’s favor, combined with the neon mood lighting and “zombie” subject matter. This creates successful moments of unease in the moments when Zane is all alone. This contrasts with Mya drawing her boundaries with Zane, who instead asks him to accompany her to church on a sunny morning.
Regardless of if you agree with the scruples presented in the short, this a successful debut by Cam Marshall in both the writing and directing roles. The cinematography is fully present, and serves to fill the void of non-campy faith-based PSAs. It’s refreshing to see that it treats its audience like the adults who might appreciate being on the receiving end of this commentary.
The Community (Season 3)
The Community falls more in the recurring episodes category of this Cindependent and Chill offering. The Community features a large ensemble of characters that may or may not be consistent through each season.
I’ll admit, being thrown right into such an assorted group of people without much context was a little hard to follow. Perhaps there is an element of the show that would require multiple viewings to sink in.
It’s always rewarding to see the city of Cincinnati as the backdrop of a series, and I think the varied locations help the world feel a lot more expansive and lived-in. I only wish there had been more variety in the shot-reverse-shot organization of some of the dialogue scenes. At times the speaker could’ve been talking to themselves due to the lack of overlap in the voices (“stilted” being the best description for this) and eye line inaccuracies. Once improved, this element will drastically increase the organic feeling of the show. Otherwise, The Community has an interesting plot and charismatic actors. Jaimele Bettis as Keisha is a standout for her screen presence and good reactionary timing. There’s a nice little post-credit kicker, too. The Community can only get better.
Next of Kin
My initial perception of Next of Kin wasn’t entirely positive: a completely soundless intro, a dull color palette, and a somewhat cheesy first conversation didn’t floor me. However, as the film went on, I got sucked in. The conflict is realistic and the emotional climaxes hit harder than expected. The relationship between adoptive and biological parents will always be a fascinating one to explore, and it helps that each of the characters in Next of Kin is distinct and well-written. I appreciate how the filmmaker plays with the audience’s perceptions of certain stereotypes, touching on race relations and a tense political atmosphere without making it the central issue at hand.
While yes, some color correction would’ve been much appreciated, there’s enough shot variety and performance-driven moments to compensate for the bleak look of the film. The child actor playing Kyle is strong and he is the heart of the most devastating moments of the story.
Next of Kin plays like a real-world soap opera, and beyond being entertaining, it leaves you with something to think about. I look forward to seeing what Atia Anyadiegwu makes next. Also, the poster design is sick.
Independent Film Review: May and Chill 2021
Independent Film Review: April and Chill 2021
Call for Volunteers: Reels on Wheels Summer Program
WE NEED YOU!
Reels on Wheels is back for a 2021 summer season, and we need volunteers! You can assist our program by helping run the cinema this summer. This involves some lifting, COVID-safety protocol, a late night or two, and lots of fun with indie film and our local Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky community!
A romantic Reels on Wheels screening in Northside last summer.
We need 2-3 volunteers per evening to ensure the safety and comfort of our attendees and team.
If you are interested, please email allyson@cindependentfilmfest.org to be added to our volunteer list. Additional details will be released, including dates for signing up (generally Friday or Saturday nights,) and a required volunteer training night.
Job Posting: Executive Assistant Internship
The CIFF Executive Director is seeking a summer intern!
Are you ready to work alongside a dynamic film organizer in Cincinnati? Allyson West is an established producer and festival programmer, who specializes in curation and event creation. We are seeking dynamic and enthusiastic candidates for a summer internship that will work closely with our Executive Director to execute on the CIFF current programs, Reels on Wheels and Cindependent and Chill.
This role will focus on development, marketing, and social media management. You will be able to gain experience in curation as well as share your input on planning the 2022 festival. You will attend board meetings, and obtain insight into the planning process.
The position runs from May 1, 2021 - October 30th 2021, but special consideration will be given to the correct candidate.
Interested parties should send their CV and resume to allyson@cindependentfilmfest.org, with “Intern Applicant” in the subject line.
Job Posting: Reels on Wheels Assistant Program Manager
CIFF IS HIRING FOR THE SUMMER SEASON!
Reels on Wheels is Cindependent’s mobile cinema that serves a variety of neighborhoods from May through October with outdoor, socially-distanced film screenings.
You will be trained by Executive Director Allyson West and work alongside the summer program manager to execute on the summer season.
We are looking for a dynamic person to help us shape and further this program. This is paid, part-time, seasonal work with the opportunity for growth. The position runs from May 1, 2021 - October 30th 2021. Considerations around the summer screening schedule will be made for the appropriate candidate.
About Us
CIFF is a 501c-3 Non Profit that is Cincinnati’s home for Independent Filmmaking. We support our community, and we support the vibrant and personal stories that come out lot independent entrepreneurs and storytellers.
Expectation
This position is responsible for assisting the Reels on Wheels Program Manager by executing and maintaining the 2021 Reels on Wheels program for CIFF. This person needs to be knowledgeable of the technical cinema aspects to ensure seamless visual and audio screenings, in addition to managing volunteers. This position works closely with the Executive Director and Assistant Program Manager to meet all program objectives and needs. The right candidate will be trained on cinema operations.
Responsible for
Attending and supporting the weekly Reels on Wheels film screenings.
Organizing and arranging 2-3 volunteers for evening. Ensuring all legal and waiver requirements are satisfied prior to volunteer arrival.
Developing social media assets and disbursing to partner organizations as needed. Working with CIFF’s Social Media director to effectively advertise and collect photos, video, and stats of each screening.
Follow established safety protocol, especially as it relates to COVID-19.
Work with partner organizations to execute needed outreach and advertising efforts.
Maintaining cinema training and a required Drivers’ License. Will need to pack and pick up the cinema each evening.
Communicate audience information to the Executive Director following each screening, including bookings for future screenings.
Maintain documentation on staff events and professional interpersonal relationships.
Programs to be used
Squarespace
Mailchimp
Monday.com
Google Suite
Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to Allyson West at allyson@cindependentfilmfest.org, with ‘RoW Assistant Program Manager Candidate’ listed in the subject line.
Job Posting: Reels on Wheels Program Manager
Are you looking for a unique and dynamic way to be involved in the film community?
CIFF is hiring for the summer season!
Reels on Wheels is Cindependent’s mobile cinema that serves a variety of neighborhoods from May through October with outdoor, socially-distanced film screenings.
The 2020 Reels on Wheels team sets up the cinema outside the Cincinnati Art Museum.
You will be trained by Executive Director Allyson West on managing the summer program, including one assistant manager and multiple volunteers for each screening.
We are looking for a dynamic adult with management experience to help us shape and further this program. This is paid, part-time, seasonal work with the opportunity for growth. The position runs from May 1, 2021 - October 30th 2021. Considerations around the summer screening schedule will be made for the appropriate candidate.
About Us
CIFF is a 501c-3 Non Profit that is Cincinnati’s home for Independent Filmmaking. We support our community, and we support the vibrant and personal stories that come out lot independent entrepreneurs and storytellers.
Expectation
This position is responsible for executing and maintaining the 2021 Reels on Wheels program for CIFF. This person needs to be knowledgeable of the technical cinema aspects to ensure seamless visual and audio screenings, in addition to managing Assistant Manager and volunteer. This position works closely with the Executive Director to meet all program objectives and needs, and the right candidate will be trained on all technical needs.
Responsible for
Reviewing and executing upon the summer screening schedule in various locations all over the city.
Working with partner organizations to execute needed outreach and advertising efforts.
Managing the program budget in regard to concessions, merchandise, and cinema maintenance. Purchasing as needed on behalf of the program.
Maintaining cinema training and a required Drivers’ License. Will need to pack and pick up the cinema each evening.
Overseeing the set-up and break-down of each screening, including check-in, reservations, and seating for each event.
Representing CIFF at Reels on Wheels screenings by leading talk-backs, Q&As, liaising with artists and community members, and ensuring pristine visual and audio quality throughout the screening.
Returning the cinema to its parking location each evening.
Communicate audience information to the Executive Director following each screening, including bookings for future screenings.
Maintain documentation on staff events and professional interpersonal relationships.
Ensure safety compliance, especially as it relates to COVID-19.
Software to be used
Squarespace
Mailchimp
Monday.com
Google Suite
Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to Allyson West at allyson@cindependentfilmfest.org, with ‘RoW Program Manager Candidate’ listed in the subject line.
