The Right Questions

I was lucky enough to catch an early screening of "The Right Questions" and I was absolutely blown away by it. Being one who isn't into the indie film scene as much as others, I was reluctant to entertain the the thought of viewing this film at all. But nearly two hours later, after the film had ended, many of my views had dramatically changed. What this movie is is an incredible work of talent as the acting and direction were both enjoyable. There were a few familiar faces (Nikita and Still) who had been recently seen in another incredible Memphis indie film, "Poor and Hungry", as well as newcomers Sharon Bishop and Kellen Cade who respectively and brilliantly played a homeless crackhead mother and her rouge son. With very poignant moments intermingled with moments of genuine humor, this film moved like a well written poem. The best part of all and the element that I've heard the many people after the screening speak the most highly about was the cinematography work done by newcomer Rod Pitts. The vividness of many of the scenes literally looked like they were painted onto a live action canvas with Pitts as the artist who manipulated the colors, tones and shadows like a seasoned veteran. Hard to believe this is his first screen credit. Even harder to believe was that he created such amazing images with digital video. I can't wait to see what Pitts and Smith (the writer/director) cook up next!

I caught this film at the Hollywood Black Film Festival and one thing has been confirmed: Memphis, TN is a hot bed for indie filmmakers. I caught another Memphis Gem, "Poor and Hungry" a few years back at the Hollywood Film Festival and like that film, this film is equally brilliant. "The Right Questions" is a bit strange in some places as the narrative seems to waver a bit but the true nature of the film is held together with powerful performances by all relatively unknown actors and a keen eye for direction by director Benjamine Smith. The relationship between the drug addicted prostitute, Jewel (Sharon Bishop) and her son Blaine (Kellan Cade) is one of the most touching relationships I've have seen in recent films and Uki (Keenon Nikita, who was also in Poor and Hungry) is just a cool MF with enough charisma to capture any audience. Several elements along with a magnificent photography job done by cinematographer Rod Pitts make this one of the most memorable digital independent film I have seen in a while.

I give this film an 8.5 out of a 10. Definitely worth a viewing!