«This movies makes TMU seem like a real community of serious movie makers. It also make you believe that the struggle might be worthwhile.»

«Brilliant!»

«interesting twist on movies »

«Amazing film. Well directed, well written and well voiced.

»

«One of the most unusual machinima movies that I have ever seen. I say that as high compliment!

The script was masterful and the direction superb along with brilliant voice acting.

Although a lot of the content was TMU/The Movies orientated I do feel that it is a film that people from outside of the community could relate to and understand.

A brilliant film, nay, a masterpiece!»

«Oh my goodness. That's a real drama if ever I've seen one.

Excelently made. Some fantastic VOs and a kind of filming I've never come across - the use of background scenery and incorporated TM was fantstic.

Congrats to both of you on this real success of a production!»

«I've seen this only once, but I think I'll watch it again tonight. It's really an inspiring drama.»

«This movie is worthy of cleaning up at the ollies. 5 stars.»

«There's just so much I can so about this film, praising it, upholding it. I'm just gonna favorite it.»

«A landmark TM flick.
Enjoyable. Melodramatic.
Could also be a radio play.
Clean and beautiful look.»

«Winner of the 6th jakechief awards for best picture!»

«awesome the second time I watched it.»

«Great story, great cast, great movie )»

«The very opening of the film sets the bar of quality way up in the stratosphere, with a series of cross cuts combined with haunting music to produce one spooky punch. I was immediately pulled into this intriguing story, because so little was known of Dalen and his life. What caused his mysterious death? Is he still trying to communicate with others beyond the grave? The mystery surrounding Dalen's mysterious script is incredibly well presented, and I couldn't really pull away from my computer screen; that is great storytelling. The cast is nothing short of flawless, but I have to credit Joseph and goofparade for being so natural and so believable. It must have been challenging to play themselves, but everyone in this film pulled it off.
The visual style of the film is absolutely fantastic. The contrasting of the "realistic" elements of the real world and the more "cartoonish" The Movies game was pulled off extremely well, and it served as a nice division between reality and machinima. The direction and the writing really fed off each other, combined in perfect synergy to present this somber tale in a subtle, even-handed style. Much kudos given to director Rik Vargard and writer Josephkw, for making such a unique film, incredible work by you two. I do have to mention that the ending wasn't really satisfying for me, presenting a twist that is a little too far-fetched, even though the message is conveyed very well. But apart from the spotty ending, the film finishes on a touching note, and for the most part, is an incredibly well-done piece of cinema. I have to give a standing ovation to such a well-made effort by such talented people. Bravo! Bravo!!!!»

«I must have been in a cave when this was released because I dont remember when it was, and I've been waiting for it. There is nothing that I can say that will be different then what has already been said, but I bow to you for this excellent film!

Fantastic production values, great cast, and a unique and intriguing storyline. BRAVO!»

«oops... my detailed comm on TheMovies.fr :

http://themovies.fr/viewtopic.php?p=75928&highlight=#75928»

«my english skill is so poor i don't want write a piece lol, but I posted a more detailed comm in our french community :

with simple words I liked some technical aspects of this movie : dubbing, picture, sounds. the film suffers though of an unbelievable scenario : you or JosephKw have leathally pounded the background of your mysterious hero. Otherwise when I see the poor quality of his last movie, Dalen CAN NOT be the best director on TMU ! It's absolutely unrealistic loool.

Only the Skype sequences might have a technical and dramatical interest. That's my global opinion. »

«This has ''Ollie'' writen all over it...excelent job mon ami!»

«Excellent»

«Brilliantly produced, with a distinctive look and style from the masterful Mr. Vargard. The desaturated look of "now" with the colorful "film" scenes/flashbacks was effective, there wasn't a false note in any of the performances, and the editing/camera work really supported the feel and flow of the flick.

Yes, the "message" was a little heavy-handed, but there was enough foreshadowing to make it believable, and if you're going to deliver a message, as Joseph does so often in his scripts (keep on doing what you're doing, Joseph - somebody has to balance out the cynical bastards like me), it's often hard to make it subtle, yet still effective, especially in this medium.

It was a pleasure being part of this project, and the final result was well worth the effort.»

«Oh my.. The spelling errors. Sorry for that :p»

«Very very powerfull Joseph and Rik. A movie that gets a hold on you right from the start and never lets go. A very intresting and original story that made me start thinking of the passing of Patty82. R.I.P. I have to give credit to Joseph for some extrodinary writing, especially the way you could make a conversation seem as entertaining as anthing. If there is something to criticize it is that it doesn't keep the atmosphere through the whole movie. You build up a very dark mood at first. To later in the "Flashbacks" and scenes from Goofs movie, there is a much lighter approach. These scenes allso, in my opinion, does not have the same quality as the present day scenes, in writing, directing and even Voice acting it seems that it keeps a lower quality over all, and as I said, the mood constantly shifts between dark to light(er). I hope I am making some sense here :p I'm not the best at explaining things.
Even though it has it's (few) flaws, you can't deny the brilliance of this movie, with it's exeptional writing and great voice acting, as well as a great director. This is a movie that moves, and sticks with you for a long time. This has a pretty good chance to bring home an Ollie or two this year. Great Work!
/Filip»

«I have to say that I agree with Norrie!
It was all going great until 3/4 of the way through, when it turned into a TV Movie of the Week, over dramatic with messages so far in your face, you're practically making out with them. A tribute movie that turned into a Lifetime Movie of John and Patsy Ramsey.

On the technical aspect, it was well edited and directed, as well with the voice actors, sounds and music. The tint was a little too much on the artsy side and the brightness a little much.

The inconsistencies of how people pronounce his name, is it (Day-len) or (Dah-len)? and not to mention that his lover and mother call him by his internet moniker instead of his real name???

How they figured out his last name is beyond me? JosephKw and Goofparade must work for the FBI, CIA, CSI, TMZ or something!

After the father's dastardly deed, just when you think he's going to be emotional about his son's death or what he's done, he turns into the typical villain with the classic line "I'm not gonna do time for the likes of you" which cements him as the evil gay bashing sociopath, at least you didn't go with the evil laugh at the end.

"My husband is a good man", but just like The Hulk, don't make him angry, you wouldn't like him when he's angry!

a disappointing end to what could've been a good film.»

«Soory about that 'or cancel' thing
I copied my thoughts from vimeo and I guess I copied to much.»

«What a powerful film. The use of the video and screen captures along with the soundtrack really made this film. The contrasting image styles enhanced the production almost giving it a surreal effect.

Great job.
What a powerful film. The use of the video and screen captures along with the soundtrack really made this film. The contrasting image styles enhanced the production almost giving it a surreal effect.

Great job.
or cancel »

«Hiya, Asa and Norrie!
Just keep it going on, guys! Thanks to you both this might just be the "most commented" movie two weeks in a row lol !

More seriously, remember we're all part of the same beautiful vessel called TMU.
Before and on top of everything, we are filmmakers, that's why we are here together today.
Because we have the same passion.
We have the right to not like each other, but also the duty to respect each ohter.
If one doesn't like a movie, he may say so and earns respect for speaking sincerely what he thinks. No movie on earth is liked by every living being.
When you get to blame someone about a typo, you don't have anything left to say.
When you react to someone who has nothing left to say, you have nothing better to do.

C'mon guys, we're not fighting in Afghanistan, we're just making movies. Telling stories.
Have fun, treat each other with sincerity and respect.
And you'll see the guy is far far less bad than you thought.

Peace, we're all TMU!



Rik»

«I suppose you'll play zany old man with me and suggest you knew your correction was ironic, considering my comment. But seriously Norrie, I don't want any conflict, you've got enough on your mind what with your wafro receding and all.»

«Shouldn't that be "nihilistic"?
Sorry Rik, it's the ego-driven pedant in me »

«Typical this film doesn't meet the standards of the 'great' Norrie, at least not all of us are pedantic, egotistical, nihilist morons.»

«Truly wonderful work Rik and Joseph.
Outstanding on every level.»

«What a film. My hands are still shaking. This is film making at it's best, animated or not.

And even tho I am a fan of Goofparade, I still think that Nahton should receive a special nod for his mesmerizing perfomance as the dad.

Something tells me that Joseph & Rik will be making more movies together in the future.»

«Everything is top notch about this. Can't add that hasn't already been said. Bravo!»

«That was a unique movie, I must say. Extremely well put together, from the script to the visuals to the outstanding voice work. A job well done by all.»

«It is kind of ironic that music would be in the "murder" scene. That was so tragic. It fit perfectly, good job man. AWESOME little story. I will be seeing what you come up with in the future.

Simply tragic.

~Jay Summers»

«Brilliant! Well written and directed! and of course great acting which made this believable film come to life! I loved how you brought me into the film by involving the entire community (even though I'm new here I felt included) Bravo!!
»

«OK, seems I'm the only one who doesn't like it.
It seemed to want to send a message, and I hat that.
Up until the final third I was happy with the sheer nepotism, but then...
A simplistic denouement, that I would never expected from Mr Kw.

Take away the nepotistic references and this is an odd cove.

Sorry, but the last third really spoilt it for me.»

«A movie very unique in it's execution and style. Solid performances were a must as much of the action was based over skype. Just an excellent movie. Congratulations for all the accolades you will undoubtedly receive.»

«Tremendously engaging.
Really cool way to portray our community to the rest of the world. Very well done.
Brilliant performance by the entire cast.
Awesome editing.
As others have said, this will be on the top of the list for Ollie consideration.»

«Amazing work Rik and JosephKw did a great job with the script.
Just one word WOW.»

«An instant classic and obviously an early favorite for film of the year for the Ollies. Amazing work in every fashion.»

«Wow, the movie is so powerful. and very sad. For a second there i thought it was a truth story. The plot is so interesting and all of you did a great with the voice over. »

«I knew this was going to be a different viewing experience when I read the script. Joseph's script was truly different and Rik's direction brought the TMU universe to the screen in an exceptional and believable fashion. The My fellow castmates were all excellent. in their roles. Great use of music as well. It was thoroughly enjoyable to watch. »

«I really enjoyed this! Rik, great job directing. The technical part is brilliant, the effects and sounds seamlessly combined to create a very professional look and feel. JosephKW's story is intriguing and keeps the viewer captive. Nice work all around for the whole cast.

But more than anything, I enjoyed this as a warm homage to TMO/TMU. Nice way to weave them into the story.»

«Very surreal, awesome job all the way around.»

«A definite classic.

Brilliant writing, brilliant performances, brilliant visuals and effects... what I can say, it's freaking brilliant.»

«That was heart breaking, the music was fantastic and stuff like this really does happen in real life. This will be a favorite of mine in the top ten.»

«Wonderful work Rik and Joseph, you two have both combined to produce a wonderful piece of machinima here. There are so many great things about this. I think the main reason I enjoyed this the most is due to the story, I have never seen anything like this before as a machinima or even a real life flick; it's so unique and interesting which is why I enjoyed it most. Great VO performances from the cast. I really enjoyed Joseph and Goof's performances, they were top notch. Other honorable mentions go to Rjana, Userjosh, Tre, Ken and even Roger! Everyone did great!

I also enjoyed the music, it fitted well with the atmosphere and played along very nicely. I also liked the styles and visuals of the film. Having a glum, sometimes grainy effect added to the realism, also the use of real life pictures integrated with The Movies was nice. Sometimes it may have been a bit too shiny as already mentioned but it wasn't anything too drastic and off-putting. Joseph's writing in this is also superb, it's a realistic and gripping story which had me to the very end. And Rik's directing was also great. I really hope to see you two collaborating again maybe one day!

I also enjoyed the small little additions which make this film so good and unique, for example the use of Skype, that was well done along with the integrated scenes with the TMU forums and TMOA Radio. These little things really did make this feel like it was set in our community and I loved it. Great work on that!

Overall; good work from everyone involved, the writing, directing, acting and editing was sublime. This, I'm sure will be up for several Ollies when the time comes and it's great to show something realistic which involves our community and how something can affect us all despite not knowing each other in person. Wonderful work!

★★★★★»

«GP always delivers top performances, but this role I really felt like I was seeing another dimension to him. The rest of the cast performed admirably - but GP carries this film.

The time flew by and before I knew it the 33 minutes were up. I loved the contrast in style between the movie and the "movie." I felt genuine concern coming from Ken, Roger & Joseph.

This was a riveting combination of exceptional writing as always from Joseph, and the unique directing style of Rik. Such a nice representation of the TMU community as well! Most of this movie felt very believable.

(Everytime the Skype ring went off it made me jump in my seat - kept thinking people were calling me!)

The ending was gripping, although I think different methods of both the event and the immediately following event (trying not to give away a spoiler here) would have kept the believability factor as high as it was throughout the rest of the movie.

I was really looking forward to this movie, and you didn't disappoint! Great work from everyone involved.»

«Great work. Had me right up til the end. I thoughht you were going one way and you went another. Nice use of backgrounds and avatars blended in with the washed out look. Great stuff.»

«Whoooaaa!
Absolutely outstandingly Superb!
Just amazing stuff all round.
TM has still got a lot of life in it yet & this was a fantastic Tribute to so many parts of the community at large as well. Loved the cameo's of different community members.
The writing was just excellent.
JKW has always spun us a great story & Rik you truly are a Wizard...
Fantastic work by everyone involved as well.
So many things to be mentioned...
LOVE THIS Flick!»

«Brilliant movie, I like how you told both stories through the lense of the traditional "Movies game" and the transition of real life which looked really realistic despite still using the movie charachters, brilliant piece of machinima...Well worth the wait.»

«Wow, I don't make many movies but.. when i do.. and I don't even have to do anything!!

When I saw the script I thought that it was a clever, engaging way of knitting our community a little bit tighter. It worked very well overall with some great dialogue and realistic acting by half of TMU.

Rik, you have a great sense with the camera and the backdrops were lovely. Joseph, your creative touch is felt in this and the theme could easily be adapted for prime time tv.

Music was really a strong point yoo, overall, great work by all.»

«OUTSTANDING FILM!!!!!

I gotta say this is one good film! I am glad to have been in it! I was Dalen by the way... I aint mad. Great use of real world scenes to show the differance in "real life" events I think the best use of chroma key was the beatdown scene having everyone walk by i looked like a "stock scene" music selection was great. Everyone did a great job with the VOs I know it sounds silly but the best part was watching the "movie makeing" scene. »

«Solid stylish filmmaking. Excellent writing. I particularly liked the way GP handled the situation when he "thought" he knew what was going on. Realistic and well played. Some of the Movies animations jumped out to me as an old TM user but elsewise I was engrossed. Good stuff.»

«Masterfully done. I always envision the film when I write the story and script, and it was great to see it come to life through someone else's eyes. Your vision, Rik, surpassed my greatest expectations. I could not have hoped to craft as superb a film.

The visual style was inspired--especially the differences between the two worlds. Ingenious. The music selections were absolutely brilliant, as well. They fit the theme and scenes to a tee.

I did notice one flaw in the film though--you made a typo error in your end credits. I believe Dalen was played by RJAnaconda, not UserJosh. End critique.

All that is left is for me to thank you profusely for bringing my story and script to life in such a brilliant fashion. It was an honor to have worked with you. Truly.»

«That is really a Tribute. Brilliant idea about fictive scenery well imagined and planed. loved each part. couldn't be better just brilliant »

«That was absolutely incredible. Honestly this was just perfect all around. The brilliant writing was brought to life by the absolutely flawless movie-making. The entire cast gave a fantastic performance as well. I can't get over just how perfect this movie was in every way. »

«Absolutely brilliant. As soon as I read the description, I knew this was going to be good, because it is something I haven't ever seen before. Hell, I've never even heard of this kind of story before.

The main thing that caught my eye was the spectacular use of visuals. Blending The Movies footage with real life footage. The final product most definitely reflects the time and dedication you put into this. It is beautiful.

★★★★★»

«Rick are you Dallen ? lol. Bcause i dont want to do ur tribute. Ok that's done. C'est un très bon machinima. Bien pensé, bien amené. Toujours original graphiquement parlant. L'esthétique est sympathique même si je trouve toujours que tu contrastes énormément tes images. Mais finalement tu rehausses toujours tes productions par un montage et un rythme excellent. L'histoire de JKWong est très bonne. Un beau duo. Franchement j'hésite encore à le mettre dans le top 10 de mes machinimas préférés mais j'ai passé un agréable moment et je ferais partager votre œuvre ^^

C'est vrai que la musique est bien choisie aussi. Et les acteurs principaux jouent bien. Good voice acting !

Bravo !

»

«This was such an experience! The looks, the sounds were those we are all familiar with making the realism weight of the movie peak. Rik was extremely creative with this production. very poignant stuff here. Definite contender for an Ollie.

K4»

«Stunning visuals, great concept and hard-hitting story, exquisitely written and beautifully shot; all combined together to make an absolute gobsmacker of a movie. Some excellent performances and interesting visuals all stoke the fuel of the creative fire; the whole thing sucks you in from beginning to end.

A tour-de-force and a breathtaking film; you should be proud of this achievement; it's a doozy!

Yes, the music did get a little loud in places and the filter did make some of the scenes a little too bright, but that's just niggling quibbles. This is a movie EVERYONE should see at least once, preferrably several times.

My hat is off to you, sirs; a crowning glory!»

«Wow, amazing work Rik. All the time and effort you, Joseph and everyone else put into this has definitely paid off. The music was a big plus here, some really nice tunes that fitted the mood perfectly. They were a little loud in places and drowned out the VOs but overall the music was great. The VOs were excellent throughout (except mine... god, I'm embarassed by my performance lol). Joseph and Gp were engaging throughout as the protagonists, very sensitive and touching performances to carry the script along. The story was brilliantly told through Joseph's script, a wonderfully tragic tale with a brilliant twist at the end. The visuals, as always in a Rik Vargard production, were fantastic. Brilliant idea to use real life footage to represent reality as opposed to the movie world. I liked the filter too, though I thought perhaps it was a touch too bright in places and it was difficult to see some things. Overall though, great work Rik, should do well in the Ollies

***** - 5 stars»

«Impressive story came along with great visuals and sounds editing.
What make this movie so great was you put pieces together in the right place and the right time and I loved your fast cut in the intense conversation scenes, very effective.
This is one of my favorite, no doubt about that !!

»

«wow, Rik, that was heartwarming! Unbelievable! Loved how you pieced everything together. »

«Wow, I am totally astounded by the work you guys have put up here. First of all, this is top class writing. The build-up, the suspense, not knowing, then knowing but the twist comes out... awesome! The end part reminded me a bit of American Beauty, I will not give away anything but still that part gave me the goosebumps.

As for the inventive editing, that is something you guys should be very proud of. It hasn't been done yet and the way the editing has been executed is just spot on. I like working with chroma keying myself but I would have never thought of using real life footage as backgrounds. Class!

Then the music, which is probably what gave this movie such a great atmosphere. Nice choice of music and it fit every scene very accurately. The VO's were also of a very high quality and that combined with everything I noted above makes this one of my favourite movies in TMO/TMU history. I think this deserves an applause, if not an instant Ollie. Well done cast and crew! If I could give more than 5 stars, I would.


Regards,

Doc»