Salt City

I stumbled upon this little indie while browsing through one of those free movie apps...and finding this was such a happy accident. This movie is quite simplistic from a plot standpoint and it meanders all over the place throughout its 2 hr runtime, but it works totally in the movie's favor. The meandering aimlessness of this does an excellent mirroring the meandering aimlessness of its main character's mind (performed to perfection by Brandin Fennissy). It does a fantastic job throwing you in the mind of this character and you feel just as out of place and confused as he does. This feels like something that could have been made in the late 90s or early 2000s and I mean that as a compliment. It really matches the style of the small indies that came out during those years. 2 hrs is a tad long for being such a low budget flick but it is consistently funny and interesting so I was fully engaged from beginning to end. Also loved the soundtrack. 10 stars.

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!

I attended the premier of this movie at the manilas art cinema over the summer. I was not sure what to expect but as a fan of independent cinema I decided to give it a go. I am so glad I did! This movie has not left my mind and it is a future cult classic for sure. So many hilarious moments that I just can not get out of my head! It was SO strange in the best way. A very unique comedy that does not seem to really head in any specific direction but you are more than willing to tag along for the wild ride because it just hooks you. It is crazy entertaining and the acting (especially for a low budget flick) is terrific. I also LOVED the music. I think my only complaint is one or two scenes could have used some trimming. Not sure if this will be playing theatrically again but definitely seek this out where it is available and give it a go. It is a bit different but stick with it and I promise you will not regret it. It really screws with you!