Dead Buffalo (2009) User Reviews

A Low Budget Gem

[uriahglenn · 8/10 · 16 June 2009]

This is the first work I've seen from Koszulinski but Id agree that there is definite potential in his vision. In what is clearly a very low budget venture, Koszulinski succeeds in creating a struggling but lucid father-son relationship despite the dodgy dialog and scenic simplicity that persists throughout the piece. The pacing of Dead Buffalo is often labored, but this comes across as if done deliberately and in my opinion serves well the relationship.

The acting is largely what can be expected of a low budget indie. That said, I was particularly impressed with the performances of the two supporting actors, both of whom offered distinct absurdities that relieved the tension of the greater narrative. My only criticism is that we didn't see more of them.

The film is more impressive considering Koszulinskis unilateral writer/director/editor role in the film. The footage that we do see is edited convincingly (some wonderfully timed jump cuts and implementation of wide lens shots). A fair criticism is that we could've benefited from more establishing shots, especially while the father-son are on the road. Not sure if that was intended or a limit of the budget, but the film at times felt claustrophobic.

Overall this was a rewarding watch. I will be looking out for more titles from this director in the future.

Modulated inSight

[tedg · 1 May 2009]

I follow this young filmmaker's work. He makes it easy for me and there are rewards. This is his latest.

I like this guy's intuitions, and think he will so something important some day. These projects are his way of working with us to find out how.

If you seek this out, you will find two things that are excellent: the general idea for the story and the way the camera is used. The strong intuitions I mentioned are how he coordinates the components of the scene: the lines, the camera movement and the edits. Its as fluid as one of the serious greats. Its really quite rare, and will pay off.

The problems are that the actual lines are poor, and the production and acting aren't at the same level. The score is as unconnected with the cinematic vision as the camera is connected. In other words, everything you actually see is strong. Everything you hear is not.

Ted's Evaluation -- 2 of 3: Has some interesting elements.