Personal Documentary
Drama, Independent, 23-Feb-2024
During the summer semester at a NYC arts school, boundaries begin to blur between an adjunct professor and the students in her filmmaking class. “Personal Documentary,” a long-form feature directed by Jinho Myung, is a real-time exploration of various modes of intimate filmmaking — both a discussion and an examination of the creative process, approaches to education and self-expression. A burgeoning young filmmaker herself, Cara teaches a course on personal filmmaking to a handful of students, introducing a style of creation that draws heavily from personal experience. She’s conflicted about teaching, feeling like the time to further her directorial career is passing her by. As she begins to bond with her students, one in particular, Zach, begins to make a special effort to connect with her. A complicated back and forth ensues as the students prepare their final projects. Full of vibrant, youthful conversations about cinema and self, the film is an utterly realistic portrait that moves at its own speed and features an ensemble of compelling characters. We’ve featured Myung previously with last year’s “Into Particles,” another college-set narrative, and a couple other short films including “The Pressure of Sweetness” and “When it comes to the inside of you.” -KA. Director: Jinho Myung. Cast: Cara Ronzetti, Zach Galsky, Legyaan Thapa, Irmak Akgur, Grant Owens, Abe Kaye, Kalliopi Magnis, and Soriah Tiongson, Irmak Akgur, Grant Owens, Abe Kaye, Kalliopi Magnis, and Soriyah Tongson. Camera Operators: Chris Martinez, Alex Sulock, Sterling Smith, Steven Zambon, and Will Scott. Music: Nick McClurg.