Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- Patrick Branson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
America's Blues represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Patrick Branson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of America's Blues took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 122 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 851 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While America's Blues shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, which focuses more on action than character development, America's Blues offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Lady Sings the Blues and Eric Clapton: Sessions for Robert J explore similar territory, America's Blues stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 5, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 23m
- Budget: $18,000
