AFF Review: Straight to the Bone

Everything changes, cities as well as relationships.  That theme is underscored in Erik Mauck's latest film, Straight to the Bone, which premiered at the Austin Film Festival.   Mauck's previous film, the Austin based documentary Zombie Girl: The Movie, played Fantastic Fest last year.

Living in Austin for any length of time eventually results in the lamentation of how much the city is changing, and as hard as change may be for some, growth is essential for every living organism or relationship.  No longer a student, Shannon wants something more meaningful in her life, but her boyfriend Jay is content with the status quo.  Happening upon an act of kindness makes it impossible for Shannon (River Gareth) to remain complacent.  Blake (Ryan Edgerly), a stranger, makes her realize just what she's missing. Jay (Matt Thornton) doesn't take well to the notion that good enough isn't enough anymore, and after a fight over his annoyance at her sense of responsibility, he takes off in a childish snit.

Straight to the Bone almost resembles mumblecore, but it's not. There is actual focus in the conversation, and there is a story that moves forward. Unfortunately, some scenes run on too long. At 118 minutes, at least 18 of them could be edited out.  It also relies too heavily on tight, handheld close-ups with only faces in the frames, and the frequent focus pulls are distracting.  The effect is annoying, but manages to not to ruin the film. That's not to say the cinematography isn't worthwhile; it seems to be an expedient choice, especially for external scenes. It's unclear why it's used so often for the interior shots.

One particular scene is erases most of the distraction of those close-ups; outside the Blanton museum, Shannon and Blake approach an abstract culture, the Geometry of Hope. The scene is beautifully shot, with the sculpture both enveloping and separating the pair

Despite the rambling, the story is there, and the characters are realized and recognizable. These are recognizable people, not just movie characters.  It's easy to see why Shanon can't resist spending time with Blake, or why Blake becomes enamored of her.  Jay could easily be any slacker friend, not unlikeable, but frustrating in his attachment to his inertia. It appears that Matt Thornton's own parents (Robert Thornton, Shirley Thornton) play Jay's parents, with performances so authentic it's like being in the same room as parental advice is doled out. The pragmatic kick in the pants speech by Mom, and the subsequent interpretation/apology is one most adult children will recognize. 

Austin itself as a minor character, underscoring the inevitability of change and growth without passing judgment on it. In fact, Mauck fills every possible exterior with Austin-centric scenery, as well as some interiors, including a live performance at the Hole in the Wall and chicken shit bingo at Ginny's Little Longhorn Saloon.

Mauck doesn't attempt to wrap everything up in a neat little package. Instead, it showcases a particular point in time which will eventually be a landmark moment.  Flawed, but worthy, Straight to the Bone is a film that showcases the work of a promising director as well as cast. 

Austin Connections:  Everything. Mauck is an Austinite, and he used local resources, actors and locations.

Austin Locations:  It might be quicker to list what locations weren't used.  Austin locations include Quack's, Nomad, Mabel Davis Skate Park, Austin Farmers Market, the Texas Capitol, Lady Bird Lake, Wink, 4th street (including Cantina Laredo), Ginny's Little Longhorn Saloon, Kerbey Lane Cafe, Hole in the Wall, Congress Ave, SoCo (including Hey, Cupcake), I-35, Blanton museum, Zilker Botanical Gardens as well as multiple construction sites. It should also be noted that Real Ale Beer, a Blanco company, is also featured in at least one scene, as well as an Austin Chronicle with local filmmaker Kat Candler named on the cover. Music is performed by Savant of String, Midori Umi, and Darling New Neighbors, including live performances by Lonesome Heroes and Dale Watson.