The Frame

I am a huge fan of Jamin Winan's film "Ink" so I have been waiting for "The Frame" for awhile. After seeing it I wasn't disappointed, even if it doesn't top "Ink." This movie has much better acting and is overall of higher visual quality, but the story is much slower and probably could have benefited from a little more editing.

I do think that Winans is the most original film maker in the game right now. He reminds me of Christopher Nolan and I would love to see what he could do with a blockbuster budget. The main area where his movies fall short is in the acting department. While the main characters are played by good actors, some of the smaller roles are played by people that simply aren't good.

Overall, this movie is completely original and doesn't fit into any category. Even if someone's review gave away the whole story you would have to see it for yourself to understand. This is a movie that is going to mean something different for every person that watches it, but it's not for everyone. Winan's movies are dream-like and some people will prefer a more straight forward story. But, I think the movie is beautiful. Winan's visuals and music are always stellar. I am already looking forward to his next project, whatever that may be.

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.

If he can do this with a minimal budget, what can he do with big bucks..? But then would Hollywood producers force their mindless pap on him..?

Hard to say, but I am way impressed..! If you forget the religious aspect and simply consider it all as consciousness projection it all makes pretty good sense.. Considering how much video, movies, etc I watch it would not be a surprise to me to have a reflective manifestation like this.. haha Really solid acting by the main cast.. Really good directing with impeccable timing.. Fluid cinematography and nothing shoved in your face.. Even the gunplay was realistic and within the bounds of logic.. Like a few other movies about consciousness and perspective this is basically a simple Inception.. Everything is relative, even how we perceive the meaning of this play.. Well done everyone involved in this and thank you for putting something smart out there and allowing the audience to receive something positive amongst the typical horror and angst Hollywood cranks out these days.. 👍