CATCH A FALLEN STAR
The Story
A working-class drama about a married couple (my parents) - and their quest to win the lottery.
Phyll and Ben discuss their strategy, their numbers and most importantly their commitment to the numbers game.
The Process
This was my first film upon being back in Boston. I initially shot it - twice, on 16mm, black&white. The film shoot was a nightmare, technical difficulties - etc. The film planned was scrapped.
I took a video production class at BF/VF.
I also thought video was an ideal format for documentaries.
And thus - the film was born on video, digital video - then leading to my further adventures with this medium.
The Characters
Working with my parents was another adventure! I am grateful for the experience. Ultimately I wanted to give an insight into the logics behind the mind of a typical lottery player. My parents have been playing the game since it's beginnings.
My Dad says at one point in the film -
"The lottery is the poor man's tax. The state, the government are really the winners - however the daily thrill and excitement it gives to us is truly a pleasure. I just can't pass on the chance in becoming rich."
They were troopers throughout the process - since this was my first film in a while - we did many, many takes...
How did I compensate them for their time - with scratch tickets, and many of them!
The film was shot with the VX1000.
The edit was created on the Avid.