Check out the Most Daring & Visionary Experimental Films Coming out of TIFF 2015 | No Film School

History has shown us that when storytelling methods and aesthetics evolve in classical cinema, experimental filmmakers like David Lynch, Maya Deren, Luis Buñuel, and Chantal Ackerman have left their impression somewhere. So, where are we headed today? What are the most recent rumblings in the bizarre world of experimental film?

Well, this might give you an idea (or some ideas). As we approach the kick-off of the Toronto International Film Festival (Sept. 10th), video essayist Kevin B. Lee picks 7 of his favorite films from TIFF's Wavelengths program, which highlights outstanding experimental shorts and features by some of the most exciting new filmmakers working today.

If classic narrative films are prose, then experimental films are poetry. (Of course, all films are a little bit poetry, right?) These filmmakers take joy in pushing the medium, growing it, redefining it. This is why, in my humble opinion, it'd benefit all filmmakers to consume as many of these kinds of films as they possibly can. You can learn new filmmaking techniques, new ways of telling stories, or just sit back and get inspired by images that you've never seen before.

Source: Keyframe

TIFF 2015 kevinblee experimental experimentalfilm avantgarde Wavelengths shorts

Mark Duplass Has Some Thoughts on Sundance Acceptance

Mark Duplass Share His Thoughts on Sundance Acceptance

The Calvary King delivers a hopeful message to filmmakers who didn't get into Sundance.

Mark Duplass has always been a filmmaker's filmmaker. He famously delivered his "The Cavalry is Not Coming" speech at SXSW as a call to action for independent filmmakers to stop waiting and start shooting. Duplass also historically creates and works on small-budget indie projects, including being a key member of the lo-fi, bare-bones mumblecore movement. He's also a charismatic actor who brings a relatable ethos to every role he plays—not to mention seems like an overall cool dude.

We love Mark Duplass.

All the above considered, it's no surprise to see Duplass take to social media with an encouraging statement following the recently announced 2025 Sundance lineup this past Wednesday. Duplass, hot off positive reviews for the recently released The Creep Tapes on Shudder, warmly comforted filmmakers that if you happened to apply to Sundance and weren't selected, hey, that's okay. They curate 15,775. It happens.

We all know rejection sucks, but don't sweat it. Be proud of your project no matter what. And watch Mark Duplass's full snippet of encouraging wisdom below.

Keep ReadingShow less

Popular

Latest