We’re always on the lookout for below-the-radar films that show the burgeoning talent of the filmmaker to keep an eye on, and "Bird in Hand" is such an example. An indie romance inspired by the visual and narrative approach of Kelly Reichardt’s early output, this no-budget feature was shot over three years, basically whenever the cast and crew had any spare time to work on it.
Produced and directed by Mark Olesko and Michael Manziello, and starring Andrew Westhoff, Valerie Boucvalt, Mona Fox, and Benjamin Boucvalt, the movie also boasts a handful of songs by Citizen Cope. However, you might have noticed that there isn’t a screenplay credit. That’s because the film’s story was improvised during production, letting the filmmakers capture a true independent spirit. Here’s the synopsis:
“A meditative journey through the shifting landscape of emotion and the hypnotic quality of our desires. Set to music by Citizen Cope and filmed entirely unscripted, Bird in Hand is an exploration of a young man’s struggle to let go of unfulfilled dreams to make way for life’s possibilities. Stunning sequences from the streets of San Francisco to the lush greenery of Louisiana give way to artful portrayals from an ensemble cast.”
"Bird in Hand" is now available via Reelhouse, where you can rent it for $2.99, or purchase it for $6.99 along with two shorts by the same crew. Check out the trailer below.
