On the Lot was a reality television series that aimed to discover the next generation of Hollywood directors. The show, produced by Steven Spielberg, Mark Burnett, and David Goffin sees aspiring filmmakers compete in weekly challenges, creating short films on a variety of genres and themes. They were judged by a panel of industry experts, including directors, producers, and actors. The ultimate prize was a million-dollar development deal with DreamWorks.
It is the Day 38 in Kabul…
After a “wild ride” last few weeks, we are finally settling down to the normal routine of a “reality show“.
This time, the On The Lot TV series fared better – proper introduction of the contestants, judges, and the films itself. It is interesting to see the On The Lot TV series contestants’ films under the “Comedy Short” theme (must be a one-minute film).
Some of them in the On The Lot TV series were not that funny (like the film titled “Blind Date“) and the judges disliked it too. I guess there is more to filmmaking than just having a great storyline. There is this thing called the angle of the camera, lighting, actors’ expression, and more (ya, I am learning new things here). 18 contestants – 18 short films, each running for one minute.
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Tough call on the On The Lot TV series judges and also the voters. Unlike American Idol judges, the judges for the On The Lot TV series were more “forgiving” with remarks like “I did not get the story but good effort”. Not much helpful from the “pros” here. Out of 18 short films that were screened in the On The Lot TV series, 4 are my favorite ones:-
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Dance Man
Adam Stein’s “Dance Man” was a powerful and poignant opening to the episode. Stein, a talented filmmaker with a keen eye for storytelling, crafted a captivating short film that resonated with the audience.
The film follows a man who relies solely on dance to express himself. After a life-altering accident, his dance becomes a raw and emotional outlet, conveying anger, frustration, and ultimately, hope. The stark contrast between the film’s somber beginning and its uplifting conclusion is both striking and thought-provoking.
In just one minute, Stein managed to pack a powerful emotional punch, showcasing his ability to evoke strong feelings through visual storytelling.
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Danger Zone
Zach Lipovsky, a renowned special effects artist, has once again showcased his exceptional talent with his latest masterpiece, “Danger Zone.” The 360-degree camera shot is particularly impressive, requiring meticulous planning and execution. Lipovsky, known for his innovative approach to visual effects, had to undertake 45 takes to achieve the desired result. The final product is a breathtaking spectacle, akin to watching a perfectly synchronized domino effect.
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The Big Bad Heist
Martin E. Marty, a renowned American religious historian, may not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing filmmaking. Yet, his short film “The Big Bad Heist” showcases a surprising talent for cinematic storytelling. This fast-paced, action-packed trailer offers a glimpse into a potential blockbuster, with its intriguing premise of four hapless thieves, a hefty sum of money, a ruthless crime boss, and a legion of angry ninjas.
Marty’s ability to condense a complex narrative into a succinct and engaging format is impressive, leaving viewers eager to see the full-length feature. It is a testament to his versatility and creativity that he can seamlessly transition from the scholarly world to the realm of entertainment.
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Replication Theory
Sam Friedlander’s “Replication Theory” is a fascinating concept that humorously explores the human tendency to rationalize and justify our actions. The story of the man on the plane who, after an accidental flatulence, concocts various excuses to explain the incident, is a humorous and relatable example of this theory. Friedlander’s comedic take on this universal experience highlights the lengths we go to avoid embarrassment and maintain our social standing.
It’s amusing to imagine the origins of this theory dating back to the Stone Age, when a caveman, unable to replicate the sound of a fart, might have faced dire consequences. This humorous juxtaposition between the ancient and the modern highlights the enduring nature of human behavior and our constant struggle to understand and control our environment.
Others
Andrew Hunt who made a great first impression with his excellent pitch presentation, somehow did not make the right entry this time. Although his film titled “Spaced Out” had the elements of a good comedy in the making, I guess he blew it with the alien puking scene. It was NOT funny at all. The judges loved the aliens but not the puking part.
Being a reality show with contestants up and running based on the audience’s votes can lead to strange things. One for instance, Kenny Luby is still on the run for the next round despite his film titled “Wack Alley Cab” being a big crap. But that is a reality show for you – the bad ones live another day if they have the right votes.
15 left for the next round in the On The Lot series…