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“Shooting Livien” Film Review |
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Tuesday, 25 July 2006 |
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By Vicki
Thanks to TLA Releasing for sending Jason Behr Unlimited a review copy of Shooting Livien to review.
Shooting Livien
For The Love of Rock and Roll
 The Movie:
Shooting Livien is a powerful film by Rebecca Cook about a delusional New York rock musician on the verge of stardom, who is battling inner demons and major family issues. The film stars Jason Behr (The Grudge, Skinwalkers), Sarah Winter (24), Dominic Monaghan (Lost, Lord of the Rings), Joshua Leonard (Blair Witch Project), and Ally Sheedy (The Breakfast Club).
The DVD/Extras:
The movie runs about 94 minutes. The DVD contains some wonderful special features that include the Directors’ Statement, the making-of, the original script, and the original trailer.
The Directors’ Statement:
The Directors’ Statement is a well-written article by Rebecca Cook, in which she explains her vision for Shooting Livien from the casting process to filming. It's very clear that she is proud of her work and what her cast and crew created. She even recounts some cute anecdotes from behind the scenes.
The Making of Shooting Livien:
The making of is a great montage showing the creative process and some terrific behind the scenes moments from the set. It even includes a few quick shots that never made it into the final version of the film.
The Original Script of Shooting Livien:
Reading through the script gives the audience a rare chance to read Rebecca Cook's original vision for the film. The script includes all the references to John Lennon's music and lyrics that were later removed.
The Original Trailer:
This is a wonderfully put together trailer that peaks the interest of potential viewers.
The Quality of the DVD:
 Considering this is an independent film, the DVD is of exceptional quality. The only real downside of the DVD is that it is only available in English with optional subtitles for the hearing impaired, which is a major disadvantage for anyone who does not speak English and relies on subtitles in other languages to view the film. It comes nicely packaged in a clear plastic case. The cover artwork is nicely done as well, with the five main actors featured. On the back of the case are various stills from the film. The inside cover has a great still photo of Jason Behr.
The Acting:
 Jason Behr does what he does best - he gives a wonderfully heartbreaking performance as John Livien, lead singer of The Virgins Undone. John is battling internal demons and a family history of mental illness. Sarah Wynter is captivating as Livien's love interest with secrets of her own. Dominic Monaghan as always is amazing as Livien's band-mate and best friend. Joshua Leonard does well as the band’s drummer. Ally Sheedy delivers a decent performance as Brea, yet it feels like she is out of place with the other characters.
My Review:
Shooting Livien was hard to follow at times the first time around. Once I re-watched it, I found myself really getting into the characters’ lives and enjoying all their quirks. The chemistry between all the actors gives believability to the film, which is rare to find nowadays. You become so lost in the characters you forget you are watching actors pretending to be someone else.
Fionn O'Lochlainn's music is used as The Virgins Undone. His powerful tunes remind me of some of John Lennon's solo tracks. Fionn is definitely one to watch in the coming years.
The only real complaint I found was the jerky camera movements from time to time. I am not sure if those are intentional or not.
Rebecca Cook really managed to capture the beauty of New York City and its people. Her choice in backgrounds really helped to set the mood of the film. I recommend anyone who loves music and enjoys a great psychological drama to go rent or buy this film.
RATINGS:
Movie: B+
DVD Extras: B+
It would have been great to see more cut scenes, a cast commentary and maybe some interviews with the cast and crew.
Overall Rating: B+
POSTED WITH PERMISSION
Please do not use or repost this review without permission!
Exclusively for Jason Behr Unlimited!
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