Devon Daniel Green’s “Mid/Evil Times” Premieres at Bleeding Edge, Echoing Godard’s Anarchic Spirit

Devon Daniel Green’s Mid/Evil Times, a film described as “anarchic and crazy” in its formal strategy, will have its Canadian premiere at Bleeding Edge on March 10th, following a screening at Roxy Cinema in Novel York on March 9th. The film, preceded by Matthew Chan and Jack Loyello’s A Watched Pot Never Boils, draws inspiration from the subversive post-New Wave period work of Jean-Luc Godard, particularly his television films.

A Unique Premise and DIY Aesthetic

Mid/Evil Times presents a unique premise: criminals are sentenced to act in art movies instead of serving jail time. This concept serves as a jumping-off point for a largely shot-on-video approach to cinema, defying conventional rules and echoing Godard’s experimental style. The film was initially conceived as a documentary about Renaissance Faires, but access limitations led Green to explore a different path, influenced by Godard’s Joy of Learning.

The Influence of Godard’s “Joy of Learning”

Green cites Godard’s Joy of Learning as a key influence, particularly its didactic and discursive monologues presented in a black-box studio setting. He notes how Godard subverted the format, injecting subversive ideas into what appeared to be a public service announcement. The aesthetic and format of the film’s opening scenes are directly inspired by this work. The film Tech Noir also references Godard’s work, noting his influence on the genre. Tech Noir

From Renaissance Faires to Cinematic Exploration

Whereas initial plans for a documentary about Renaissance Faires were thwarted, the aesthetic of these events remained a significant influence. Green incorporated still photographs from the Ren Faire into the film, exploring themes of cosplay, recreation, and copies of copies. A performer from Pleasure Faire Irwindale, known for whip-cracking, was initially slated to appear but ultimately declined participation.

The Appeal of Shooting on Video

Green is a proponent of shooting on video, citing its accessibility, ease of leverage, and the unique image-making qualities it offers. He emphasizes that the film utilizes multiple formats, including still photography and high-definition cameras, creating a mosaic-like aesthetic that reflects the film’s anarchic and scattershot nature. He notes that shooting on video allows for greater creative freedom, particularly in low-light situations.

A Collaborative Spirit in the LA DIY Scene

Mid/Evil Times features a cast of familiar faces from the Los Angeles DIY filmmaking scene, including Tucker Bennett and Robert Dayton. Green highlights the importance of this collaborative community, emphasizing the value of working with individuals passionate about creating art for the love of it. He describes casting choices based on observing interactions and dynamics within the scene.

SOV Influences and Bill Gunn’s Legacy

Green acknowledges the influence of the SOV (Shoot On Video) horror genre, which is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. He also cites Bill Gunn’s Personal Problems as a significant inspiration, praising its ability to translate classic Hollywood melodrama onto a consumer format. The Stacks

Mid/Evil Times will screen at Market Video on March 10th. Tickets are available here.