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Agnes Varnum is a freelance writer, film programmer and communications manager for the Austin Film Society. She is the primary contributor to doc it out and Tribeca Film Institute's Resources.

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Train on the Brain

June 18th, 2008 • Related Posts • Tags

I just watched a very wonderful film, Train on the Brain by Alison Murray. I have to admit to being in a bit of a viewing slump. I’ve been busy with my job and trying to get settled here in Austin. I have a few films atop my TV that deserve my attention. To be honest, the thing that jolted me out of my slump was that I had told the distributor that I’d watch it and I felt like I needed to get back to him (take note: he’s a follow-upper and he’d already nudged me).

Ah, but the film was just what I needed! Murray finds herself drawn in some indomitable way to travel across the country on the train. Embracing the hobo life when she had no “rational” reason for doing so. But she takes to it so fully, while making a film about it, that the film stands as one of the few stories about true freedom. Freedom from bureaucracy, family ties, material belongings but also artistic freedom. The friendships are fast and intense and end not abruptly but like a berg of ice broken into two that slowly drift apart.

Oddly nostalgic at times, but also whimsical and driving. Striking cinematography with amazing scenery, and music that moves your spirit along with the hobos and . The film is a true pleasure.

Hollywood Can Suck It is the name of Scott Beiben’s distribution effort. Scott, this is a totally awesome choice with which to launch this company. Hollywood Can Suck It.

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There Are 3 Responses So Far. »

  1. Comment by Mark Schoneveld on 1 July 2008:

    This film does look like fun. Uber-DIY, huh? I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it. Scott and I are buddies and he’s really working the underground distro effort. I hope that it succeeds!

  2. Comment by Agnes Varnum on 3 July 2008:

    No, I think the film was made for TV Ontario, so not really the US brand of DIY.

  3. Comment by Jason Scott on 7 July 2008:

    I think there’s a strong irony in calling your production company “Hollywood can Suck It” when you would be willing, in a heartbeat, to “Go Hollywood” with your film’s distribution or sales.