Field Day

The visuals in this film are spectacular! The lighting is artfully executed. The story, very well-written by Ms. Spicuzza, follows a graduate student who has studied American history, the first step in education, but has never truly experienced the inhumanity and corruption of the business of war. As we witness some of the dreadful similarities between Vietnam and Iraq, its attacks on the poor, "Field Day" offers us a personal approach to these themes, I hail the filmmakers for their daring. I'm not surprised that I haven't seen this picture in a multitude of festivals. The material is simply too controversial, which is what makes the work truly shine.

There's something magical about this film. The story seemed at times eerie, other times like everyday life, like looking in somebody's window. The score is powerful. I like that it was shot in HD. That format worked well for this story. The actors were believable. Their performances were focused and intense. I think it was a good choice on the part of the filmmakers to shoot certain scenes still-cam, others hand-held. John O'Shaughnessey must be commended, because it's his first time directing, and some of the best direction in a short I've seen. Jeanne Marie Spicuzza earns my respect for her screen writing, which is dreamy, yet maintains a crisp, intelligent dialog. The historical elements were accurate, and the costume design was very authentic. It helped me get lost in the circumstances of the characters, like "Platoon." I rented it from Vidiots in Santa Monica, which always seems to uncover these independent jewels. A controversial topic that delivers.

Excellent critique of the dehumanization of war and exploitation of power. The cinematography is phenomenal! I look forward to more films directed by John O'Shaughnessey. I loved the crisp and colorful quality of the HD, resulting in an almost Impressionistic treatment of light. The acting is superb! The story bears a classic "Twilight Zone" quality, perhaps even David Lynch influence. Great writing! The dialogue is poignant, and makes its point without excess. The story follows Angela, skillfully portrayed by Jeanne Marie Spicuzza. Her name means "heavenly messenger," and she is an "existentialist." Given these descriptions, we're told that she will, in essence, live... and tell. Very intelligent writing! I've discovered some interesting symbols, too. Even the lizard appearing in the film is indigenous to Vietnam. Brilliant and honest! I predict that this film will be studied and remembered as an important statement of our times.