I was lucky enough see this film at the premiere event. 'Art is Dead' follows the story of Ant played by (Luke Oliver) who is a struggling working-class actor fed up of hardships of trying to get a paid acting role. The film tells a tale of revenge against the people who control the film industry. It's both funny and shocking while holding a potent message.
The cinematography was decent and the film had good pacing. I would of loved to see some of the characters developed further though. The realism of the story is what I loved the most, the harsh truths it told made the film mesmerizing and to be able to do that and still be funny and entertaining shows true creative talent from both cast and crew.
Performance wise I was particularly impressed by Richard Mason's performance who played 'Dickie' the character was a fascinating wild card. Also Oliver Hall who played 'Benjamin Cummabund' gives a stellar performance he plays a charismatic super star but shows there is much more complexity to his character.
The making of this film shows you that it's possible to make a film and pursue your own dream, no matter your background or circumstance you can make it in this industry by making your own industry. The film is brilliant, but the message it holds both in making and narrative is what made it for me, I think many people will be able to relate to it.
'Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.' - Ralph Waldo Emerson
That quote sums up for me atleast what the film meant. Luke Oliver and the 'Art is Dead' team dared to go where many other people would not, and in doing so have left a trail for others to follow. You should definitely watch this film because maybe it will inspire you.
This is a remarkable debut from Director/Actor Luke Oliver and I look forward to seeing more films from him in the future. Luke Oliver and the people who stood behind him have really created something tremendous here.
