Cinema Purgatorio

This movie inspired me to add to the lexicon of aphorisms. Cinema Purgatorio is a unique movie that is a picture within a picture within a picture. Is that equal to 1,000 words to the third (cubed) power? First, the movie is about making a movie. At the risk being blacklisted for creating spoilage, I will refrain from further description along those lines.

Husband and wife co-produce "films" and are not doing too well. Spiritually and financially. They hatch a scheme to impress a Hollywood Star who, they assume, will back their next major project.

Husband and wife set out to win a 48-Hour Film Film Festival. Nearly penniless they assemble a very funny and entertaining cast and crew who include a has-been, a wannabe and several in between.

Their antics truly mirror the hazards and realities of low-budget or, in this case, no-budget projects. The 48-Hour weekend nearly turns into a disaster but through resourcefulness and persistence, they screen their entry along with several other submissions.

The remainder is fast paced and will leave you surprised and please, with a warm feeling in your heart (unless you are heartless).

CINEMA PURGATORIO was written, directed, and produced by folks who clearly have lived through (still living in?) the suffrage and anguish of indie film - yup: cinema purgatory. Pleasant, at times, painful throughout, PURGATORY puts you in the back seat as bona fide filmmakers navigate their way through the "f*cking" world of film festivals and indie film production. Constantly mocked, dismissed, and rarely taken seriously, the main characters, a filmmaking husband/wife team, Neil and Liz, do all they can to keep their filmmaking hopes alive, including a desperate attempt to win over actor Bill Murray by entering a novelty "48 hour" film competition. And as they faithfully go forth, it seems everyone has filmmaking advice to give, including a couple of mismatched knuckleheads outside a snow cone stand: "What are the three genres of independent feature films that always, always make money? Horror. Christian. And Gay!"

This clever and unexpected film about the creative process of independent film making has a lot of laughs, a much needed message and a great twist! Enjoyed every well crafted frame and the chemistry with the crazy ensemble cast was palatable. This movie also gives its audience a great message about every day life and what is most important. It's not always about the goal…its really about the journey and enjoying the moment. Everyone from artists…struggling for their next inspiration…or people in a job that seems to be going nowhere or anyone in a relationship that might be in a funk (which pretty much covers most of the people on the planet) will totally enjoy this film! …. including Bill Murray!

Loved it ! This is a MUST SEE!!!

I love seeing indie filmmakers succeed in producing quality films, which is one of the reasons I loved Cinema Purgatorio. Chris White and Emily Reach White make a wonderful team, and their love for making this film shows in every frame. Chris White also does a great job directing, but he will be remembered most for his quality performance in the lead role. White has filled his cast with wonderful character actors, and many stand out, but none more than Lavin Cuddihee who plays smarmy Nick Teasle to perfection. The film is charming and fun and truly funny, especially when Cuddihee is on the screen. I thoroughly enjoyed the film, and look forward to more from White as well as Cuddihee.

Cinema Purgatorio is a wonderfully witty film about the idiosyncrasies that go into film-making. It's a brilliant riff on the behind the scenes life, filled with rich characters and a gripping story. With only a budget of 50k, everything was stellar, considering. I believe everyone would enjoy this quirky little film, particularly people who work in the industry. In addition to all of this, it is well shot and acted. It was visually pleasing. My favorite aspect of this film was the characters. They were well- written, and I enjoyed watching them interact with each other. Their dialouge between each other is witty and always had my laughing. I was also a huge fan of the music choices used within. I will be recommending this one to everyone I know.