US | 2011 | Directed by Evan Glodell
Logline: A young man deals with the tumultuous juggle of a long-standing friendship vs. a new romance.
"Pursuit of Happiness"
Woodrow (Evan Glodell) and Aiden (Tyler Dawson), two young restless men, plan to take the inevitable apocalypse’s bull by the horns. They will arm themselves with DIY flamethrowers and cruise the ruined landscape in Medusa, their souped-up Mad Max-inspired ’72 Buick Skylark, as legendary bandits.
"Memories"
Then Woodrow meets Milly (Jessie Wiseman) and everything changes.
"Almost Home"
Bursting with the colour of a sunburnt summer’s edge, drifting with the curious irresponsibility of a dog off its leash, resonating like a tequila hangover after you’ve sculled the hair of the mutt that bit you, Bellflower is the cure for the romance you never want to find, it’s the answer that never had a question, the kiss that leaves a scar you’ll cherish.
"All Things End"
Made on the smell of an oily rag, Bellflower is a true labour of love, made with a bunch of friends who shared the rose-coloured vision through cracked lenses. This is a movie that basks in the sunshine of pure cinema; moments in love, be it friendship or a relationship, be them drunken, stoned, happy, angry, or sad. These are scenes imbued with the fragility, urgency, carelessness, and intimacy of living in the moment.
"Legend of The Medusa"
At the core of Bellflower – the title takes its name from the Californian suburb where the friends roam – is the friendship of Woodrow and Aiden. In this respect it’s a buddy flick. But the greater picture reveals more complex relationships - and romance, both direct and indirect, rears its head to turn those to stone who spit at it.
"Nobody Gets Out of Here Alive"
The gorgeousness of broken youth, Bellflower blooms with flames of rage and despair. This was a movie that resonated with me for days after. The distinct, expressionistic cinematography – courtesy of a unique Glodell-customised digital camera – the use of hip source music and an evocative original score, and the charismatic, naturalistic performances of the unknown cast; in particular, Rebekah Brandes’ as Milly’s friend Courtney.
"In the Darkest Hour"
Bellflower is an acquired taste, but it tickled my dark fancy something exquisite. You haven’t seen anything quite like it, yet so much feels familiar. This is the mumblecore masterpiece that wasn’t even aware of its hip trappings, and my personal favourite movie of the year.
Bellflower DVD is courtesy of Accent Entertainment, many thanks.