American Movie follows filmmaker Mark Borchardt as he pursues his American dream, to make films. With his Mastercard, and $3,000 from uncle Bill, he works on his short horror film Coven with the aid of relatives, the local theater talent, and a number of his friends.
The most memorable characters in American Movie apart from Mark Borchardt himself would have to be his uncle Bill and his close friend Mike Schank. Borchardt spent a lot of time working to convince his uncle to invest into his film and receive a producer credit. In the end, uncle Bill does end up lending him the money, but you know that uncle Bill isn’t really considering it to be an investment.
When everybody else would ditch Borchardt, his friend Mike would always be there, to help in anyway possible, and if anything to lighten the mood.
There is much memorable dialogue in American Movie, from both Borchardt and Mike.
Mark Borchardt: Do you think this is a little bit cathartic for you?
Mike: Uh, very cathartic, Mark.
Mark Borchardt: Do you know what cathartic means?
Mike: No.
After multiple viewings, this documentary does not get old, and it is very enjoyable. You see Borchardt struggle and struggle, but refuse to give up on his dream, even after facing numerous difficulties, including some personal demons such as alcohol, debt, and a dysfunctional family.
American Movie is an entertaining documentary, with a lot of funny moments. But it is also very inspiring. There might be criticism of some of Borchardt’s skills such as the dialogue he uses in his film. But in the end, it is Borchardt’s American dream, and he achieves his American movie.
IMDB | Wiki American Movie | Wiki Borchardt’s film ‘Coven’
Trailer for American Movie (watch this, and you will go out and rent it)
Website for American Movie (including Mike Schank’s phone number)
Clips of Mike Schank from American Movie (some strong language)
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