What We Do in the Shadows

What We Do in the Shadows is a comedy horror styled mockumentary film that was just released in February of 2015. Directed by both Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, this film follows three vampires that live together in a flat located in the Wellington suburb of Te Aro. We follow these three roommates, all coming from different periods and locations in history, as they try to adapt to the very different and confusing 21st century culture. Unable to travel outdoors during the day, due to the fact that vampires burn up in the sun, they are restricted to out door travel only at night. Literal creatures of the night, most of the films plot and comedic effect comes alongside their struggle to fit in and live successful lives while they are unable to experience day life.

Jemaine Clement, most famous for his work in the New Zealand musical duo Flight of the Concords, brings his amazing sense of comedy to life on the big screen. Not only did Taika Waititi  and Jeamaine create the film but they also did an amazing job on screen, alongside Jonathan Brugh. The acting in this film was phenomenal. Each character added a lot to the progression and dynamic of the story; however, if it had not been for the cast the delivery would not have been nearly as powerful.

This film is unlike any other mockumentary I have ever seen before. Going into this film I had no idea what I should be expecting but I definitely came out pleasantly surprised. The cast was extremely entertaining to watch, the set and production design was interesting and eye catching. The only complaint that I could possibly have about this film is that the comedy did not go far enough. If you are to take anything away it is that the comedy stylings were unique in every way, which made it interesting throughout. I would recommend that everyone take the time to this film because everyone I have spoken with has walked away with a different opinion.

2014 Ithaca International Fantastic Fest

Just a short post this week, but it's on a very relevant topic. This weekend, Cinemapolis and Cornell Cinema will be hosting Ithaca's 3rd Annual International Fantastic Film Festival. Halloween may have been two weeks ago, but this encompasses all things horror anyway. New films from around the world as well as recognized classics will be screening, with a special focus put on the theme of witchcraft.

I've never been to a film festival of any kind and despite this being a far cry from the likes of Cannes, Venice, Sundance or TIFF, it remains a reason for excitement. The occasion aligns with a weekend of relatively little work, so there will be plenty of time check out what the fest has to offer, retrospectives and unreleased works alike.

As for a schedule, my plans are not set in stone, but here's what it looks like at the moment:

 First up is Cold in July. It's not exactly a horror film, more like a crime thriller, but a second chance to see it is very welcome. The film had a far too brief release this summer and I've heard good word across the board. Tension, violence and a terrific trio of performances by Michael C. Hall, Sam Shepard and Don Johnson is expected. The film screens Friday at Cornell Cinema.

 Saturday will be throw-back day, with a double feature of The Wicker Man (the original of course!) and The Exorcist at Cornell Cinema. Somehow I've never gotten around to seeing either of these. Exorcist is less excusable, but blindspots are blindspots. Two horror classics released in 1973, one concerning cults and the other, possession. Should make for a spooky evening of viewing!

On Sunday, the festival closes, and I plan on being there for two new releases: the zany documentary of  a project gone bad, Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley's Island of Dr. Moreau and the New Zealand vampire comedy, What We Do in the Shadows. Both will be screening at Cinemapolis.

To have a local film festival, no matter how small, is such a gift. A wide exposure to a variety of films allows for the free-flowing exchange of perspectives and ideas from around the world and it ought to yield at least a handful of hidden gems. While most of the titles may be unknown, it's an environment where you're encouraged to explore and dig for little films with big riches. With Cortaca rapidly approaching, I don't expect the majority of students to pay particular attention to this cultural event. Drinks will be spilling and parties will be bumping for sure. As for me, you can keep your football game...I'll be digging for buried treasure at the cinema.