Movie Star
Drama, Short Films, 22-May-2024
An elderly woman turns to unconventional methods to create closeness with her caregiver. Spencer Gibson’s “Movie Star” is an intimate drama recognizing intergenerational companionship. Ruth and her younger caregiver, Jo, spend most of their day in the household. Despite their physical closeness, there’s a signifiant distance between the two. Looking for stationary supplies in desk one day, Ruth comes across an old JVC handicam. Compelled by the sights of the viewfinder, Ruth films bits of beauty from her day: interior decor, the front yard, and the activities Jo completes. While Ruth films her play a piece on the piano, Jo stops and expresses a sharp frustration with being recorded. Later in the day, Ruth accidentally shatters a glass mason jar and must turn to Jo for assistance. The film closely observes the dynamics between an elderly individual and a younger caregiver — a heartfelt consideration on being filmed, age, and loneliness. -JM. Writer/Director: Spencer Gibson. Cast: Eve Sigall, Mariele Atienza. Poducers: Kenna Dworsky, Spencer Gibson, Patrick Daughters. Cinematography: Brody Anderson. 1st AC: Hao Yu. 2nd AC Hannah Lee. Gaffer: Paul Kim. Key Grip: Eric Wann. Sound: Daniel Bonilla. Editor: Spencer Gibson. Original score: Peter Coccoma. Sound design and mix: Nick Ainsworth. Colorist: Keyhan Bayegan.