natural

In The Pines (Short Film) from Shep Films on Vimeo.

These past few weeks have rushed by in a blur. It feels like every moment has been jam packed with work and things. I feel a bit out of sorts, and not my usual creative self. Hopefully things will slow down a bit and I’ll get into a more productive mode. Right now though I feel like I’m on a see saw bouncing between being overwhelmed and then being absolutely slovenly (although this may have something to do with the fact that our shower is still being repaired).

Beyond that personal note, I wanted to continue sharing short films. IN THE PINES was something I had bookmarked last year and only just now had the chance to watch. I’m mostly fascinated by the macro footage, but it also manages to capture a specific longing emotion pretty effectively. It certainly makes me want to visit Washington.

birthday kitten

This week marked little Weetzie Cat’s birthday. Granted, I totally made up her birthday but it could be her real birthday possibly.

after suicide

After Suicide Poster

I’ve been trying to share more short films here, it’s nothing official but maybe it will be a Friday thing. Now that I’ve said that it probably won’t be.

In any case, this film is one that is near and dear to my heart. In part because Shawn made it, but beyond that, because it addresses some ideas about depression and suicide that I think are often overlooked.

When I first watched After Suicide, it hit me like a ton of bricks. It’s not often that I have such an intense reaction to short films, but the subject really resonated for me and I couldn’t quite shake it. In so many films suicide is romanticized or in some cases just glossed over. It’s such a dark subject, it’s easy to understand why it’s so hard to address. This film takes a personal look at how suicide effects those left behind.

AFTER SUICIDE from Shawn Bannon on Vimeo.

After Suicide is the antithesis of the viral video; it’s thoughtful, emotional and lingering. I hope you’ll take a moment to watch it and share your thoughts.

whateverest

WHATEVEREST from Kristoffer Borgli on Vimeo.

I’ve loved this short film Whateverest since I saw it at AFI Fest last year. It’s got great music and some wild antics. Love love love.

Rock Pockets

Rock Pockets from Trevor Anderson on Vimeo.

I thought I’d share this short film by my friend Trevor Anderson because I think it’s just great and it seems particularly poignant while SCOTUS is debating such nonsense (love is love is love and marriage is whatever it wants to be). I can’t bear to listen to people’s idiotic dogma about god and procreation so I’ll just watch this and feel hopeful.

Irish Movies for St. Patrick’s Day

quiet_man_poster I get awfully excited about St. Patrick’s day. Possibly more than I should. I guess I’m always looking for a reason to celebrate. Yes, I have Irish heritage, but I also get wrapped up in any holiday where I can make themed meals. Especially with potatoes.

This year, being that it’s on the weekend, I’m dreaming of watching any Irish film I can think of. The Quiet Man is one of my favorites. Even though its plot is sort of outdated, Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne make it all worth it.

itnotf_02 itnotf_03 itnotf_01 In the Name of the Father is an impeccable film, and while it’s certainly not light and fluffy, it is another great choice. It gives you a tiny glimpse into the struggles that have plagued Northern Ireland through the years. Daniel Day-Lewis is outstanding, as always.

roan_inish_02 roan_inish_03 roan_inish_01 The Secret of Roan Inish is a film I’ve loved since I was a child. It’s the way I always imagine Ireland looks, though I realize there are many more cities. It is full of mystery and fantasy and beautiful landscapes.

Other films worth mentioning: Once (mainly for the music) and The Butcher Boy. I also have to throw in Cremaster 3 for having a section filmed at Giant’s Causeway.

What are your favorite Irish films?