Doogie Howser Did It, So Why Not Me?

Robots In Love

I am always a fan of great cinema. I might go as far as saying I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to movies.

That being said, there are times when something so simple, can be so intricate at the same time.

One of my all time favorite directors, some may say, visionary, is Spike Jonze. Having come from the humble beginnings of the music video world, he never ceases to amaze me with his ability to think so far outside the box, you end up waning to live inside of his box, because it just feels so right. His latest project can be found at imheremovie.com

This is a short film that runs about 30 min in length and is apparently sponsored by Absolute Vodka.

Let me note that I had to try for 3 days to finally “get in” to see a screening of the film. So, if you aren’t able to do so on your first try, please do not give up, it is completely worth your time and effort.

There’s a simplicity to this film that few directors/writers can accomplish. If you know me at all, you know how impressed I was with Spike’s adaptation of Where The Wild Things Are. Spike’s ability to convey deep emotion through very simple actions and words is by far one of his strengths. The subtle use of music and sound design add an incredible depth to this little film. As you follow the story of this robot you are quickly drawn in and become emotionally tied to his story. The imagery and way the lens captures the story allows us to traverse deep within the mind and heart of the characters in a way that is not often found in many films. It boils down to the little things that you may not even be thinking about. The crux of the shape of a mouth, the slight narrowing of the eyes, the infinite sea of emotion that is captured in the eyes, to the little nuances of a hand motion. These all add an understanding that is often hard to describe, but can allow the viewer to become completely intertwined with what they are watching.

I’m slightly hesitant to post the trailer to the film, because in a way I think it is something that is best experienced head first. So I caution you to only play the trailer if you are extremely one the fence about Spike and are unfamiliar with what he can do with a camera, lights, sounds and moving images.

Absolute Robot from funny you should ask on Vimeo.

Spike captures the independent ethos and will continue to buck the traditional trends in how and why movies/films are made. I can only wait expectantly to see what he produces next.

If you missed this earlier gem of bizarre and postmodern expression check out what happens when Spike Jonze and Kayne West get together.

WE WERE ONCE A FAIRYTALE BY SPIKE JONZE & KANYE WEST
Uploaded by teleTOC. – Classic TV and last night’s shows, online.