The Dust Factory

This movie discusses topics that may not be understood by all ages, but are certainly suitable for all ages. The basic question of what is life's purpose is a central theme. The movie brings up the notion that life is not a problem to be solved, but rather something to be experienced; finding paradise and total bliss comes at a price, but must be paid. The movie's theme is something that is rarely touched on by most mainstream films, now dominated by empty action films.

The acting was superb. Armin Mueller-Stahl played the guiding, grandfather very well; and Ryan Kelley is easily identified with his character. The filming location in Oregon was beautiful, and fits the film perfectly. In addition, the soundtrack fits scenes well. The plot however at times seems slow, and there seems to be periods of confusion when the audience has to guess what is happening if they missed a single line.

Overall, this movie presents ideas that an entire family should consider, while at the same time presenting it in a new and innovative way. It definitely will reshape your view on life.

RELEASED IN 2004 and directed by Eric Small, "The Dust Factory" is a drama/family/fantasy about two young teens (Ryan Kelley and Hayden Panettiere) and the boy's grandfather (Armin Mueller-Stahl) who enter into a strange dimension parallel to the real world. Will they live or will they die?

Imagine mixing "Carnival of Souls" (1962) and "Something Wicked This Way Comes" (1983) with DC Comic's Strange Sports Stories and you'd have a good idea of this movie. Being a family-friendly film, it lacks horror, but there are enough strange things going on and it arguably borders on horror.

The relationship between Melanie (Panettiere) and Ryan (Kelley) is the heart of the story, with Gramps offering sage counsel. While it's neither great nor bad, seeing Panettiere when she was so young (14 during shooting) is a treat. She's just a joy to watch. Moreover, there are some imaginative visuals, like the teens in the field with the circus tent in the background, and the story certainly reaches for depth in its reflections on the nature of death and bereavement.

THE FILM RUNS 1 hours & 20 minutes and was shot in Oregon (Portland, Hillsboro & Mount Hood).

GRADE: B-/C+

The Dust Factory is a very cute fantasy film that obviously comes from the heart. Young Ryan has been scarred by the death of his father, and no longer speaks. An accident transports him to a fantastic world called The Dust Factory, where Ryan regains his voice. He is soon reunited with his Grandpa, whose Alzheimer's keeps him from communicating in the real world. Ryan also meets the precocious Mel, an adorable tomboy who idolizes Peter Pan. The relationship between Mel and Ryan is the core of the film, with Grandpa providing sage advice. This film has very "indie" production values, but it is very ambitious for a small budget film, and the special effects come off well. The writer/director obviously wanted to tell this story, and hard work pays off in a very enjoyable independent fantasy film.

This film is not easy to understand. In fact, the viewer may not understand it at all save for basic concepts of life. The movie is saved by the excellent acting and the surreal sets and concepts. It's unusual, and holds attention throughout.

Hayden Panettiere carries the film as Melanie, an energetic girl who wants to live her life in an idealistic fantasy world. Ryan Kelly plays an excellent counterpart, a boy too grounded in the negatives of life to enjoy any of it. The fulcrum between the two is Ryan's grandfather, a wizened man who is trying to help both of them understand life a bit better. How they go about that however, is more than a little odd.

Don't look for a definite plot or smooth story line in this. I can't recommend it as a family film, as the circus and clowns, tentacle scenes (honest) and the casket scene may be frightening to younger children. Those who don't understand the concept of surreal films may miss the points entirely. Older teens and younger adults, as well as the aged are more likely to find it enjoyable. But those looking for neatly-tied strings are likely to be disappointed. There is much symbolism here and not all of it neatly packaged.

I give it 5 stars for maintaining interest, but it was too loosely symbolic and esoteric to woo mainstream audiences. I enjoyed the film, but probably would not have enjoyed it as much were the actors less skilled and charismatic... or might have enjoyed it a bit more if the plot and purpose were tighter.

The primary problem is that those old enough to understand the points, already know the points. Those who might benefit from the lessons taught probably won't understand the points being made. So the writing comes up short from the standpoint of actually reaching its goal audience-- younger teens.

Even so, those who rated this film as terrible (especially the person who said it's the worst film ever made)... I just have to wonder. I can understand a film not meeting someone's personal taste. But to be upset enough about it to post a rant shouting to the world, "I didn't understand a thing here and wish to express my ignorance to the world!" I mean, really? That seems to me far more strange than the film itself. ; }

Overall a decent film with nothing objectionable-- increasingly rare these days. Worth watching for the acting alone, and does have a moral to be learned, if one is willing to pay attention to the dialog.

I just picked up this movie off the shelf because the title was interesting. I had never heard of it before. So I didn't know what to expect. It was really a surprise to find that it was good. We enjoyed it very much. The two main characters were very likable. I wish that they had gone into a little more detail of the circumstances of why they were at the factory but overall a good story about learning to deal with your fears and moving on with your life.

In this world of the big movies with lots of action, drama, sex, it was very sweet. Great family movie with lots to discuss after it is over. Give it a try.