 |
| Images Courtesy of Mythic Productions |
Sean
Cisterna's lovingly crafted documentary, Silver Screamers is not
only a testament to the love of all things cinema, it is a
remarkable story about seniors and how age is not an obstacle, but
something to be cherished. What begins as an independent artist
struggling to get a short horror film financed evolves into a wholesome celebration
of life and the artform. Featuring an outstanding group of senior
citizens and some of the most genuine emotional beats ever filmed, this is one
of the best documentaries of the year.
Cisterna is unable to secure funding for his short horror film The Rug,
which involves a man-eating rug. He soon realizes that he can obtain
government funding by having senior citizens as crew members. Their
cinematic journey is the lion’s share of the narrative. Each senior is
given a mentor for their department: cinematography, makeup, set design,
production, direction, sound, special effects, props, and wardrobe. One
of the strongest attributes is in how it treats its principals. The
seniors are never portrayed as weak and feeble. These are people
brimming with life, reservations, and most importantly, curiosity.
Another important piece is the relationships that develop. Not only
between the seniors themselves, but also between the seniors and their
mentors. Watching old and young souls come together creatively is a
joyful reminder of the important things in life. The author of the short
story the film is based on is in several scenes and the concept of
"Sweeping things under the rug" being transformed into a carnivorous
area rug is somehow fitting and hilarious. The great Jayne Eastwood (Dawn
of the Dead, Videodrome) stars in the short film and her
interactions with the seniors are touching.
The final piece is learning how films get made. Each of the seniors gets
their moment to shine and in doing so conveys not only a love for the medium,
but also educates on how movies are actually made, which is invaluable
knowledge in a time when artificial intelligence is a direct threat to the
artform.
Coming to video on demand this Friday, Silver Screamers is the perfect cozy, post spooky season treat. Respectfully showcasing that seniors are full of life and creativity while also gently reminding us that love and awe are truly all around us; you just have to stop and look. Finally, the short film that is created in the documentary is available for free on YouTube.
--Kyle
Jonathan