| Search:Independent films, also known as "indie films", are usually limited-distribution, low-budget films that have a distinct style and level of creativity, and which are made by independent production companies. Today, the industry has gained popularity and become an arena in which all filmmakers, stars, and even lesser-knowns can create films with their own personal styles and storylines. |
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The BuzzLet's face it, we are talking about the films that most of us miss until award season rolls around--and it shouldn't be that way! Sometimes, some of the best performance are overlooked because they were overtaken at the box offices by a Marvel Comics superhero. Check out the independent films before the actors and actresses, directors, writers, and producers hit the red carpet. For this guide, we're going to stick with the independent films that actually use actors, and steer clear of independent film documentaries, which is a whole different ballgame! Keeping track of everything happening on the indie film circuit is difficult for anyone, even those who are in it! |
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Tons of indie films made every year, so where to begin? Here are the highlights from the last two years or so.
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Only director Danny Boyle |
This is one of the favorites from indie movie festivals of 2010. And with a cast like Annette Bening, Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo |
Okay, this is a foreign film from France, but it is totally worth mentioning since it was all over the indie news circuit in 2009 (released in the US in February 2010) with rave reviews. |
Annette Bening |
Tilda Swinton |
| 2009 | ||||
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My own personal philosophy: if Bill Murray |
It was every award show's favorite film! Jeff Bridges just cannot seem to do wrong: in this film, based on the 1987 novel by Thomas Cobb |
Brothers Joel and Ethan Coen created a world of dark comedy around a professor whose life begins to fall apart both professionally and personally. |
Everyone wanted to check out the directorial debut from clothing designer Tom Ford in 2009 with his film, A Single Man. Also starring Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, and Julianna Moore. |
Based on the Jay Parini's biography of Leo Tolstoy |
Upcoming Releases
While it's helpful to stay on top of the roster of established independent filmmakers, keep in mind that most of them didn't become successful overnight! Check out these pictures coming to an indie theater near you and you may find a gem performance.
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United Artists (1919)
Fox Searchlight (1994)
Focus Features (2002)
Sony Picture Classics (1991)
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Inglourious Basterds A violent, dramatic-comedy war film about the assassination plots for Nazi soldiers. It won Screen Actors Guild and Golden Globe Awards. |
Synecdoche, New York A tragic comedy about a theater director struggling with his next play, as well as personal and professional relationships. It won a Los Angeles Film Critics Association Award and Independent Spirit Awards. |
The Wrestler A former wrestler tries to rebuild personal relationships and find a new life outside of the ring. It won BAFTA and Independent Spirit Awards, as well as many others. |
A Serious Man This dark comedy set in the 1960's is about a man reflecting on his martial and family problems. It won a National Board of Review and National Society of Film Critics Awards. |
