Picture your first big movie experience. Approaching the theatre, mammoth neon letters spelling the words “Celebration”, or, “NCG”, are difficult for a person to miss. Inside you see giant posters featuring famous actors starring in multi-million dollar productions, covering the high walls of a very spacious lobby. Remember? Now try to recall your first independent film experience. If you were even lucky enough to be in one of the run down, shoddy venues in which these obscure films are shown, chances are it was much less glamorous.

Indie films have been flying under the radar for over 100 years. The earliest were shot by pioneer directors in the early 1900’s. These bold fore-fathers of the art rebelled against the big shots of the Motion Picture Patent Company and the Edison trusts, and after constructing their own cameras, moved to Southern California to set the framework for the Hollywood Studio. Eventually, even the studio created by anti-conformist directors became too powerful, and many, once again, sought independence.

Unfortunately, many people fail to look outside the spotlight to see the beauty and talent that is so prevalent in Indy Films. But those who do are often impressed. “Independent films give film makers the chance to make a film as a work of art rather than a product of mainstream idiocy.” Said Jeff Renton, a senior at ERHS. And that is what’s so special about low budget films. Since there isn’t money to throw away on effects, more energy and artistic talent is channeled into making them.

It’s very clear that you don’t need a truckload of money to make a great film. John Carpenter changed horror cinema forever with Halloween by using a budget just over $3,000.00. And in 1992, Quentin Tarantino reinvented film noir in Reservoir Dogs with a budget of 1.2 million dollars, a large budget for an Indie film but still incomparable to a Hollywood production.

The independent industry is significant because it offers unknown actors, actresses and directors a chance to break the ice. An independently financed film has many less complications than a studio film. A fair amount of big budget productions have co-financers, expensive music licensing to cover, and renowned actors and actresses that require a large paycheck. With all of this responsibility, it’s almost impossible for aspiring directors to make it in Hollywood.

Fortunately, Indie films haven’t gone entirely unnoticed. With the help of the IFC (Independent Film Channel), Reelz channel, and numerous film festivals across America, such as Cannes and Sundance, the industry has been increasing in popularity and getting some well deserved attention. The Reelz channel even hosts a Director’s Documentary show that’s features many Independent directors. The industry is flourishing and it won’t fade out any time soon.

The following list will be included in a demographic when I make my page.

1.

The lost Boys

2.

A Clockwork Orange

3.

Pulp Fiction

4.

Amelie

5.

Reservoir Dogs

6.

Killing Zoe

7.

Hard Candy

8.

In America

9.

Clerks

10.

Requiem for a dream