Salt City is the story of Kid (Brandin Fennessy) who has returned home to Syracuse, NY after many years. It follows Kid as he attempts to find his girlfriend Vincenza. Inspired by the Duplass Brothers and Joe Swanberg, as well as Slacker by Richard Linklater, the film was shot entirely in the mumblecore style of low budget and based off a loose story idea, while not using a traditional script.
While the improvisation tends to overextend and make it feel like there is a lack of purpose to some of the scenes, it also leads to some interesting and humorous interactions between the main character and those he meets along the way. The supporting cast which includes Chris Dell, Fox Applegate, Chuck Teska, and Clare Lopez as Vincenza turn in great performances which are spaced out just right as to not take away from Fennessy's role of Kid, but serve to enhance his portrayal of the character.
Fennessy's use body language and facial expressions add a layer to Kid which go to further show his emotional and mental state throughout his quest. In addition the choice to have this film in black and white is an even stronger tool used to show the loneliness and desperation of the central character.
The film has great cinematography which features the city of Syracuse, NY through many aerial and background shots that show the city as though it's a character itself.
Embracing the mumblecore style which often features natural lighting, allowed for many distinct camera angles including close ups and framing which you will not see in Hollywood produced films.
Overall Director James D. Froio, and all involved have created an enjoyable film which is both humorous and scenic and allows you to forget about your worries for a while and follow Kid on his journey through the great city of Syracuse, NY.
A True Credit to Central New York filmmakers!
