Channels gives us an artist's point of view about what constitutes "reality." Covered in the frilly dressing of a romantic comedy. It really provokes some thought.
The director and writer, Nat Christian cleverly seduces us into having fun and rooting for our two main characters. Then we suddenly realize that something serious, something big is happening.
Christian demonstrates a confidence in carrying out his vision. This is his piece of work and he paints it the way he wants it to flow. It works very effectively. He also utilizes an alluring romantic look, helped by cinematographer Michael Hardwick, production designer Dolores Piazza and visual effects person Duane Condor.
The actors give us impeccable performances. Ed Asner is always good, but here we also see several sides to him (and he has an outstanding monologue). Taylor Negron comes across sincere and is still funny at times. John Kassir is funny as a cynical character. Joan Van Ark looks hot and brings much strength to her role. The two leads are played by Christian and actress Kim Oja. Christian is a "natural" actor. Very real as though we were getting telescopic glimpses of this guy on the street. His honesty is appealing as well as compelling. Oja too is very interesting to watch. She has a lot of vulnerability under her beautiful facade. Both create a defining romantic chemistry.
Special note should be given to Daryl Orenge who wrote a catchy tune with Christian and Cynthia Hasson. And to actors Christopher Shiffrin (in a very funny silent bit), Amber Barretto, Chloe Hunter and Gil Glasgow.
It's a different kind of story. Not formula. But this formula worked real well for me.
The director and writer, Nat Christian cleverly seduces us into having fun and rooting for our two main characters. Then we suddenly realize that something serious, something big is happening.
Christian demonstrates a confidence in carrying out his vision. This is his piece of work and he paints it the way he wants it to flow. It works very effectively. He also utilizes an alluring romantic look, helped by cinematographer Michael Hardwick, production designer Dolores Piazza and visual effects person Duane Condor.
The actors give us impeccable performances. Ed Asner is always good, but here we also see several sides to him (and he has an outstanding monologue). Taylor Negron comes across sincere and is still funny at times. John Kassir is funny as a cynical character. Joan Van Ark looks hot and brings much strength to her role. The two leads are played by Christian and actress Kim Oja. Christian is a "natural" actor. Very real as though we were getting telescopic glimpses of this guy on the street. His honesty is appealing as well as compelling. Oja too is very interesting to watch. She has a lot of vulnerability under her beautiful facade. Both create a defining romantic chemistry.
Special note should be given to Daryl Orenge who wrote a catchy tune with Christian and Cynthia Hasson. And to actors Christopher Shiffrin (in a very funny silent bit), Amber Barretto, Chloe Hunter and Gil Glasgow.
It's a different kind of story. Not formula. But this formula worked real well for me.