Blue Line Station

The 90's were a magical time for independent filmmakers. Robert Rodriguez, John Singleton, Quentin Tarantino, and Kevin Smith would all get their careers kick-started by getting into the spirit of picking up a camera and making a movie, budgets-be-damned. It can be argued that these are the very films that helped define filmmaking in the 90's, and let a fresh set of voices in on the filmmaking scene. These days, we don't get much of a taste of true Independent filmmaking. Most "indie" flicks feature A-List actors and have far more respectable budgets than their label would indicate.

However, technology as of late has made filmmaking far less of a financial risk, and such advancements have made possible the aspirations of up-and-coming filmmaker Jorge Xolalpa Jr. Blue Line Station, at face value, tells a simple and straightforward story, but by letting his characters drive the plot forward, we get to watch this young couple - somewhat shaken by the choice in front of them - grow.

The real magic in this film is watching the two protagonists interact. Their dialogue is raw, real, and organic. At no point does any of it seem forced or scenery- chewing. Summera Howell and Leo Ramsey play off each other very well, and this film is worth viewing just for the joy of watching them do so.

Xolalpa also has an eye for cinematography. There are some very gorgeously framed shots, in spite of the fact that it is a black-and-white film. Los Angeles comes to life in every shot. He also proves to be a talented editor, giving his film a smooth narrative flow that neither feels rushed nor dragged out. From a technical standpoint, I feel the sound could have used some work. But otherwise, it was a very well-made film.

Blue Line Station was filmed on a very meager budget, but it does not show. Jorge Xolalpa Jr. shows a great deal of talent and promise as a filmmaker, and I'm glad to have had the pleasure of viewing this film. This is what independent filmmaking used to be all about.

A beautifully shot "day in the life" film that explores a delicate subject matter, but is done in an inventive, loving, sensitive, and compassionate way.

It runs very smooth and clean, is shot in classic black and white, and after reading about the minimal budget, my respect for the film only enhances because never once does this film play like a production with a limited budget. Regardless of budget, Blue Line Station cinematography is gorgeous and is directed and edited in a very stylized way that screams "love" and "passion" for the content, and should be inspiring for aspiring filmmakers.

I had no expectations coming in to see Blue Line Station. I was immediately drawn in by the camera movement and sound design. Both of the actors (Summera Howell and Leo Ramsey) performs with such a raw subtly that makes you almost forget you're watching actors on a screen. You get who these people are instantly. Everyone loved these characters and were invested in their journey. There were moments that were hysterical and moments that were touching. Overall, an INCREDIBLE film!

This film brought back both the nostalgia and pertinence of our culture's abortion debates. It was refreshing to see a realistic view point outside of what has become the Hollywood "Juno" norm. Xolalpa did a wonderful job conveying the minute emotions a couple goes through in their decision process and it was a joy to watch.

After I watched this film I came away with a big smile and a few tears on my face. I am so proud and honored to be friends and now part of the cast of another movie directed by Jorge Xolalpa, Jr. Because he as a human being and a film maker is proving to the world that if you have love and passion for what you do the result will be amazing. Blue Line Station surprised me with originality on the cinematography along with the realistic connection between the lead characters. The fact that the film was shot on a $100 budget deserves my 10 stars and more. It is 100% worth your time to watch. Congrats to the entire cast and crew they really put their hearts into this project. I was pleasantly surprised with the performance of Leo Ramsey. I don't like to compare actors but with his role he made me think we have another Robert Downey, Jr. You are a great actor Leo.