“A Parody of Worth”
Tiny Orphan’s next production, slated for Spring 2010
2 Main Characters, 2 Supporting Characters, Extras
7 page script
Shot on 16mm color negative
The script is assembled out of experiences and ideas I’ve encountered as an artist living here in the Twin Cities. The characters are an amalgamation of friends, peers and myself as we struggle to justify our “art” over every other institution or responsibility that we may have.
This film is set in present day St. Paul and explores the value of love in comparison to one’s identity, and in this case identity means art. The ideas of “love” and “art” are hugely negotiable in definition and application, and this story explores an extreme intertwining of the two: love between artists.”
This particular situation has created a paradox in my life as love and art are distinct unto themselves yet they are not separate. Together they create a circular dependency of energy and entropy, devouring and sustaining one another. How can I be a good partner if the real mistress of the house is filmmaking/music/writing/etc. Yet, I find all inspiration for my art through interpersonal relationships, experiences, dissonance, and observations. This is my struggle as a human, and an artist.
Another hugely applicable element in “A Parody of Worth” is the economic state of the metro area. Having experienced a layoff in January, and struggling to find work, much less film-related work, I’ve had to make the choice of sound editing or color correction over buying groceries. It’s brutal, but it goes back to the idea of art over everything else. The character of “Dianne” represents that sentiment in her refusal to standby as her boyfriend “Nolan” sacrifices what she sees as artistic integrity, to simply make a little more money. Yet, Nolan is meant to be the sympathetic character. This dichotomy illustrates the struggle between want versus need.
I always planned, come hell or high-water, to produce this film. It means a lot to me not only as a Twin Cities artist, but also as a fan of the Twin Cities art scene.