The Frame

THE FRAME is the second film from writer-director Jamin Winans and it represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, INK, on all fronts. The basics of the plot, which is very hard to describe as it is without giving away too much information, is that there are two people, Alex and Sam, who are each going through some difficulties in their lives. Through some weird turn of events they end up meeting and eventually help each other come to terms with their pasts and current realities. I'm possibly missing something, but that was the gist of what I got out of it. The film speaks to the theme of our past defining who we are, to ourselves and others. Both Alex and Sam are in situations that they feel trapped in because of where they've been, but it takes meeting the other to discover that they are the authors of their own stories. And somehow, a dirty, black-clad man with a wrinkled hat who sprays ink on things has something to do with it. I think that to really grasp the fullness of what Winans is doing here requires more than one viewing, and I'll probably return to it at some point. For now, though, I'm just digesting it. In comparison to INK, though, THE FRAME is a much better film. It benefits from a slightly bigger budget, and the camera-work and editing are all improved. Even the acting, while not spectacular, is better than it was in INK. There aren't a whole lot of visual effects, but one effect of people turning into ink did look pretty cool. There's also some playing around with aspect ratios towards the end. Overall, THE FRAME was a visually creative, unique sci-fi/fantasy film that explores themes of redemption and overcoming doubts with sensitivity and a little flair. If you liked INK, then you should check this out but I would also recommend it to anyone who wants something the likes of which they haven't seen before.

Be patient with the first twenty minutes, which may seem slow, but are crucial in establishing the starting point before you are taken down a truly fantastical sci-fi rabbit hole. It most definitely is not what you think it is when you first start watching, and waiting for the weirdness to begin is worth the wait, I promise you. This film asks familiar questions about free will and determinism but does so in a very original and thought-provoking way. David Carranza's performance is complex, layered and award worthy. What is The Frame? You'll have to watch to the end to find out!

Mesmerizing and hypnotic.

The soundtrack is a crucial part of the film and tells part of the story, not in words but by eliciting emotion and strong but subtle empathy. The only way to achieve that level of intricacy is to do what the director did; write the soundtrack as the story was written and filmed.

I really liked Ink and was impressed what Winans did with a micro budget. There is a tie-in or signature from Ink and it may show up in later films.

I really hope Winans retains the style and not bound by a production company. As for the film; original, artistic, surreal and romantic. It's something that will leave its mark on you.

In its genre and as an art house film, I give this an 8. No films are on equal playing fields or genres.

I consider a 7 to be the magic number of "must see" but not necessarily award winning material.

An 8 is for movies that leave a lasting impression, not just for entertainment.

Where/how to watch it: You can purchase directly from the site for $8. This includes the soundtrack. They have various packages and you can donate as well. I would be glad to help support Winans future films.

$8 to own it including the soundtrack? It usually costs me $60 to see a film with my daughters when you add everything up.

Great movie.

I was not expecting much.. just came across this by chance, and a couple hours later my body and mind are still trembling with the power and depth of this trip through the surreal. emotional, and visually stimulating, complete fantasy yet somehow touches a very real sense of ones being, and longing for redemption.. fulfillment..a search for completeness.

watching, feeling this movie was a profound experience for me, but I will not be surprised that it is not for everyone, or even anyone not prepared..open and patient, for it's magic to take you out of this world.

8/10

What a find this gem of a movie was! The originality of the film is amazing. David Carranza's acting is incredibly captivating. The movie is thought-provoking in so many levels.

There is a fairy-tale quality to the stories of Alex and Sam, but in darker tones and with the substance of a thriller. The movie is a blending of stories and genres, all interweaving and working with each other in a thrilling and strangely beautiful ballet of movie-making magic.

Alex, played by Mike Carranza playing Mike Carranza, meets Sam, played by Tiffany Mualem playing Tiffany Mualem through the television in his living room... That must have sounded so confusing on paper, yet Director Jamin Winans never lets the viewer have to carry the weight of the plot in order to appreciate the movie. The complexity of the plot device is more Memento than Primer or Inception, if you need a point of reference. In other words, the viewer is never more confused than the characters themselves are.

The final act is the most brilliant, in my opinion, but where some viewers might mentally disconnect because the movie demands more of the viewer. I won't spoil it by going into details.

Do yourself a favor and watch this movie, and keep an eye on both Jamin Winans and Mike Carranza.