Zelig, Film Geek

Zelig (1983)

Another classic from Woody Allen. I have to say, as I get older I start to appreciate his film making more and more. This is one of those that I have seen parts of over the years, but haven’t seen in its entirety in probably 20 years. It definitely holds up. This was done when the now common “mockumentary” was still a fresh idea. The editing and “special effects” were virtually seamless. The story line was believable.

Much of it makes “Forrest Gump” seem derivative. It feels as if Zemekis was inspired by it. And yet, Allen’s film was just so much more. There wasn’t the sappy, predictable typical feel to it. I have realized how much I need to make an effort to get through the complete Woody Allen library as soon as I can.  

Film Geek (2005)

I love independent films and for the most part, this film was pretty satisfying. My problem with it is that it started to run out of steam at the one hour mark. The last 20 minutes or so just felt like they were running out of money and trying to wrap it  up. 

Most of the camera work and settings were well done, but the bar scene (where Nico’s boyfrend stops by) lighting was just weird. It pulled me out of the movie. It looked like it was filmed on a set by art students. It was tough to get back into the film from that point.