Indie films are often underrated. Just in case you weren’t sure, an “indie” film is a movie produced outside the major studio system (usually on a very small budget). Despite being low budget, indies often have great cinematography, very honest writing, and manage to bring in some outstanding actors. Once you go indie, you’ll never go back. Check out our list of the best indie films of 2013 and see for yourself.
Stuck In Love
Romantic comedy-drama; Lily Collins, Logan Lerman
“Stuck In Love” focuses on the different relationships of the Borgens family. The film starts with Samantha (Lily Collins), a cynical 19 year old, but talented writer announcing her first manuscript has been accepted for publication. From here, “Stuck In Love” explores divorce, death, and three very different kinds of love. While some of it may be cliché, it’s still quite enjoyable.
The Canyons
Thriller-drama; Lindsay Lohan, Nolan Gerard Funk
Penned by the brilliant Bret Easton Ellis (author of American Psycho), “The Canyons” has been described as ‘“Cruel Intentions” meets “American Psycho”.’ The film follows the lives of four young Angelenos in the entertainment business. It’s a dark, honest film, showing the side of Los Angeles often not seen or talked about. Lindsay Lohan gives a surprisingly raw performance, but be warned: there is a fair amount of nudity though.
The Bling Ring
Satirical black comedy crime; Emma Watson, Taissa Farmiga
Based on real events, “The Bling Ring” is the story of five teens who burgled the houses of celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Orlando Bloom, and Rachel Bilson. This is a great Sofia Coppola film if you can look past Emma Watson’s not-so great American accent.
The Spectacular Now
Romantic comedy-drama; Shaliene Woodley, Miles Teller
“The Spectacular Now” is definitely a ‘coming-of-age’ film. While those films are generally awful, “The Spectacular Now” has wowed audiences all over the world. Miles Teller plays Sutter, a popular, partying high school senior whose life changes when he meets Aimee (Shailene Woodley), a girl who is his polar opposite. If you liked “500 Days of Summer” then you’ll probably enjoy “The Spectacular Now”; they were written by the same people.
Short Term 12
Drama; Brie Larson
Brie Larson stars as Grace, a supervisor at a foster-care facility for at-risk teens. While the topics “Short Term 12” deals with are pretty heavy, there is a lightness in this heartfelt film. Critics at the 2013 SXSW Film Festival loved the film, and it was awarded the two prizes for best narrative feature.
Photo credit: wikipedia
RT @ValleyMag: Indie films are great, but often underrated. Check out our list of the best from 2013 during your next movie marathon http:/…