Curated by Diksha Sharma, Daniel and David Sierra-Gonzales
In this program “In Conversation with Reality,” both documentary films tell stories of the everyday reality of people in the USA. From financial struggles, to obscene obsession of our possessions, both films will help to understand the different realities that many people face in this country.
Amy (1997)
Amy is a documentary film that tells a story about a family from Turnpike, New Jersey, traveling to California for a new life. With that, we follow Susan, daughter of the family, who’s obsession with her doll Amy becomes a prominent item even till adulthood. With its distinguishing features, we learn the perspectives from Susan’s peers including family and friends, the importance and value it gives to Susan.
Director: Susan Rivo
Cast: Ann Rivo, Morton Rivo, Susan Rivo
Cinematography: Pilar Mejia-Barrera, Chana Pollack
Film Editing: Iftach Shavit, Charlie Hutchins, Susan Rivo
Sound: Dan Olmsted
Last Call (1988)
Last call takes place in a crowded bar in San Francisco where a group of friends meets for a few drinks after a long time. During their reunion, they celebrate the promotion of one of their friends that leads up to conversations about issues and dilemmas faced by the common man in America. These topics range from appreciation to employment, poems to wars, taxes to poverty and, capitalism and happiness.
Stan Webb made this film when he was working through college as a bartender himself and with this film, he gives us a glimpse into the life of a bartender and how they become part of such interesting conversations.