American Movie

(1999) ****

This documentary may not quite meet the definition of a true stoner film, but it was worth watching. We follow Mark Borchardt, a man with a lifelong obsession with movies, in his quest to finance and complete Coven, a 35-minute short film. Mark proceeds wholeheartedly with his vision, undeterred by his lack of resources and limited talent, over the course of several years. We meet the family and friends who comprise the actors, producers, and crew. Interactions among Mark, his family, and his burnout buddies provide pathos and unintentional hilarity, evoking mockumentaries like Spinal Tap. American Movie is a must-see for anyone who enjoys documentaries and horror movies, and for anyone who has produced, directed, or starred in an amateur short film.