THE FILMMAKERS
Directed by Todd Davis Based on the story by Phil LaMarche Screenplay by Todd Davis Produced by Todd Davis and Cody Baker Edited
by Michael Berenbaum, A.C.E. Director of Photography Austin de Besche Production Designer Jenny McCracken Costume Designer Rosa J. Colón Makeup Effects Jeremy Oneail Music Composed by David Grimes Casting by Angela Peri Key Hair and Makeup Patricia Smart Executive Producer Patty Davis
THE
CAST
Billy Paul Kmiec Benjamin Jim Loutzenhiser The Mother Rachel Harker Billy at 21 Jason Ferriter Uncle Aldus Mick Hoegen Aunt Elize Kippy Goldfarb The Grandfather Chuck Brinig Aunt Tina Joanna Herrington Uncle Jess Chris Conte Cousin Eldridge KC Christian Cousin Jeremy John Rebello Cousin Kate Stephanie Simonoff Cousin Charles Richard Rogers Cousin Martha Alexia Rogers
"...riveting..."
Palm Springs International Festival of Short
Films program
"...the same gritty feel as the recent
13 (Tzameti) and hits just as hard with its depiction of a gruesome family tradition that must be seen to be believed." ReelReviewer.com (New York Film Festival review on Rotten Tomatoes)
"...This was the most professional looking film I saw at the [Rome International] Film Festival... Keep your eye out for [Todd Davis]; he is going to be big one
day. Score: A" Adam Martin, Rome Unscene
"A terrific adaptation of the short story, and an excellent use of its cast's talents." Scott Johnston, Philadelphia Film Society
"'In The Tradition of My Family' is very well made-- and quite disturbing.
Todd demonstrates his individuality as a filmmaker not only in the manner in which he creates the film, but in the decision
to film this story in the first place. I applaud him for both... I would love to see [his other films]." Arthur Allan Seidelman, director, "The Sisters"
"A gem of a short
film, 'In The Tradition of My Family' tells its story, in the tradition of Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery,' of the
rite of male passage in an extended New England family. The clean, crisp acting, lighting and editing, and taut direction
communicate a surprisingly deep and rich insight into male psychology. This film explores the warrior spirit beneath the surface
of domestic order to suggest a vast labyrinth of unspoken higher truths. This little film will haunt its viewers, its vivid
and striking images lingering long after the final blows have fallen." Les Wright,
CultureVulture.net
"The film is really extraordinary... It has a very rich parable... a simple
story that can be read in many different ways. Although the narrative is clear, it hints at all types of mysterious meanings." Charles Merzbacher, former chairman, Department of Film and Television, Boston University "[Davis] effectively portrayed the tension that family members
feel about this tradition. Cult like, it felt eerie and scary... What I enjoyed about the film was that I was bewildered,
shocked, scared and fascinated all at the same time... effective storytelling, shots... full attention to details. The color
tone - earthy and rustic. Acting was subtle but real. Remember the name, Todd H Davis, he has showed us what he can
do. I got mesmerized by his work. I look forward to his first feature film. Why should you watch this short film?
This film is a winner, effective storytelling par excellence!" Luis Pedron, FanClubX.com "...perversely intriguing..." Greg White, BU Source |
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Extra features include the rehearsal
cut, director's commentary track, extended and deleted scenes, director's interview, production photo slide show and 5.1 Dolby
surround sound mix. |
(synopsis above written by David Walker, Creative Director, Longbaugh Film Festival)
(photograph above by Christopher Plummer. ©2006 orLater Productions. All rights reserved.)
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