Nicky's Birthday Camera

I saw this film at its World Premiere at BENDFILM (a great festival) and it was the surprise of the festival: long lines, sold out screenings, and two encore screenings (also sold out). I see lots of indies (my passion) and this movie is what its all about: unpredictable, smart, unflinching, controversial, and made for a dime. The acting is terrific from the amateurs to people you'll recognize. Beautiful photography and excellent original music. After it ended, it was as if a bomb had exploded in the theater-people were so stunned! There was an uncomfortable silence, and then the place erupted. Some hated it, some loved it. Count me definitely in the latter. People argued, yelled, and cried at the Q and A after...Seriously! If you only see formula, studio-type films...you'll probably hate it. But if you want to go for a crazy ride that starts like your own home movies, and then sneaks, and finally SLAMS you down a rabbit hole, see it! I would have given it a 10, but it starts a little slow... I guess it has to. Can't tell you much about it without spoiling it. A little John Sayles. A little David Lynch, maybe. Moves into a documentary kind of feel (CAPTURING THE FRIEDMAN'S) comes to mind...and a little BLAIR WITCH-oh- my- god! Didn't see THAT coming!