The Long Reach of Funny Ha Ha

This past weekend, A.O. Scott of the New York Times published a list of the 10 most influential films of the last decade. Which Austin filmmaker’s first film is listed among titles like THE LORD OF THE RINGS, SHREK and THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST? Why, Andrew Bujalski’s FUNNY HA HA, shot in Boston but written in Austin during his first stint living here at the beginning of the decade. The film is singled out for being the first bona fide “mumblecore” film and launching the genre. Here’s what Scott had to say:

“Andrew Bujalski’s first feature film helped spawn the low-budget, socially networked, slice-of-life cinematic movement called Mumblecore. The name has already come unstuck, and the quality of the work is uneven, ranging from videotaped navel-gazing to genuine generational insight. But the model of filmmaking and distribution that Mumblecore represents is likely to prove especially durable in recessionary times.”

If you haven’t seen it, snag it on Amazon. Andrew’s newest film BEESWAX, which was shot in Austin, continues to roll around the country and the world. It’s already screened in Austin but you can join their mailing list through their website to find out when the new DVD comes out.