My First Film review: Most authentic storytelling one has ever witnessed

My First Film was released in select theaters on August 30, 2024, and was made available for streaming on Mubi on September 6, 2024. The film, directed by debutant Zia Anger and co-written with Billy Feldman, shows the reality of a filmmaker’s struggle to bring her first feature to life. The film stars Odessa Young, Devon Ross and Cole Doman among others.

My First Film had its first showing at CPH in March 2024 where it grabbed attention for its unique storytelling style. The production is a personal recount of Anger’s earlier attempt at filmmaking which is a project titled Always All Ways, Anne Marie that was never completed and labeled as "abandoned" on IMDB.

Zia Anger’s My First Film offers an honest peek behind the curtain of independent filmmaking because she didn’t shy away from the chaos and setbacks that plagued her initial foray into the film world. The plot thrives on its portrayal of these real-life experiences, which provides a raw and unpolished look at the struggles of creating art under less-than-ideal circumstances.

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My First Film: Character depth

My First Film (Image via MUBI)

The characters in the movie are drawn with a keen eye for emotional depth and realism because Vita’s journey is paralleled by her creator’s and is sketched with voices that speak to the broader themes of ambition and vulnerability. Each character from the supportive yet complicated figure of Dina, played by Devon Ross to the fleeting yet impactful appearances of the crew members, contributes to a plot that feels both personal and expansive.

The one watching won't just view it as Vita’s story but as a collective experience of artistic endeavor, marked by the characters’ interactions and personal battles.

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Cinematic style

My First Film (Image via MUBI)

Anger uses a mix of film textures and editing styles that make the movie stand out visually. The shifts in quality from crisp digital scenes to more grainy, almost nostalgic shots show the turmoil and unpredictability of Vita’s filmmaking process so the stylistic choice enhances the plot and makes the audience feel the disjointed yet passionate approach to Vita’s creative process.

The use of real-life footage and abrupt editing might disorient some but it brilliantly conveys the essence of a project born out of frustration and a desire for artistic expression.

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Humor and pathos

My-First-Film (Image via MUBI)

Despite its often heavy themes, the movie is laced with a sly humor that lightens the plot without undermining the story's impact. Anger’s script pokes fun at the absurdities of the indie film world (like a stoned crew or the pretentious side of film festivals) while still treating her characters’ struggles with respect.

The balance of humor and pathos is tricky to maintain, but the film does it with a grace that speaks to Anger’s understanding of her medium and the comedy is woven into the larger fabric of the story that enriches the film’s human touch.

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Impact and relevance

My First-Film (Image via MUBI)

The movie ultimately serves as a meta-commentary not just on filmmaking but on the creation of art itself because has challenged all the viewers to consider what it means to make something that may never see the light of day.

The film’s introspective and often introspective approach makes it a piece of art that questions and celebrates the artistic process which is much more than just a tool for entertainment. Its relevance extends beyond the film industry touching on universal themes of creation, failure and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions despite the odds.

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My First Film is streaming on TUBI.