Change Your Image
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMjQ4MTY5NzU2M15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNDc5NTgwMTI@._V1_SY100_SX100_.jpg)
HappySongHawaii
Reviews
Aimee Semple McPherson (2006)
Why this film won best guerrilla film of all time
I agree with the IGFA (International Guerrilla Film Association's) recent decision to name Rich Rossi's film on Sister Aimee Semple McPherson the top spot on it's list of the 100 greatest guerrilla films. (Films shot for a budget under $75,000.00) I know some felt shocked it beat out Clerks, El Mariachi, Eraserhead and other legendary cult classics, but Rossi did what is considered unthinkable and impossible in the nomenclature of the low budget world by making a period piece film (which means additional costuming and atmospheric expense) with not just a low budget, but with no budget. Rossi credits the cast for taking the initiative in many cases for their costuming and with a few minor issues, the mood and feel of the Roaring Twenties period stays intact in part due to the brilliance of Rossi and editor Jamie Prater's decision to take the liability of shooting on drugstore consumer camcorders bought for $300.00 and turn it into an asset by giving the film a sepia, jittery silent movie motif with title cards and public domain period music. What screams out in every frame is that come hell or high water, Richard Rossi had to make this film. His background as a wounded healer who could personally identify with the story's main character and her scandal gives the film an exploration of Aimee's psyche and her feeling trapped that is riveting, even at times claustrophobic.