American Movie Movie Review 1999

Would-be filmmaker Mark Borchardt's American Dream is to make his own independent film in his home of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. He doesn't have the money (or a particularly workable idea) but he does have lots of self-confidence and enthusiasm, as well as his mom, his 82-year-old Uncle Bill, and a cast of eccentrics. Smith's unlimited access shows Borchardt's almost limitless failures and obstacles, making the whole affair seem like a "Spinal Tap"-esque spoof, even though the people are sometimes painfully, sometimes hilariously real.

Distribution

Sony Pictures Home Video, Sony Pictures Plz., 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232, Phone: (310)244-7306, Fax: (310)280-2485, URL: http://www.spe.sony.com, Remarks: Formerly Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 104 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Documentary, Filmmaking, Wisconsin, Moms, Aunts & Uncles, Nieces & Nephews

Cast

Mike Schank, Mark Borchardt

Cinematography

Chris Smith

Director

Chris Smith

Music

Mike Schank

Other

Chris Smith

Producer

Sony Pictures Classics