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Keeping the Faith
(2000)
Commentaries on this disc:
Commentary 1:
Director/producer/actor Edward Norton and writer/producer Stuart Blumberg
Rating:8.0/10 (3 votes) [
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Reviewed by iwantmytvm on January 23rd, 2021
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Find all reviews by iwantmytvm
Norton and Blumberg deliver an engaging commentary for a film that was their passion project. Having lived in New York City for years, this was a project they had been wanting to make for years. They note which story beats were based on their own experiences or what they may have heard from others. They offer insights into their intentions for filming in New York and trying to include some more unique scenery along with what people recognize and expect to see. They point out Radio Man - who delivered a message from Norton to Matt Damon while shooting - and other New York City icons. By surrounding themselves with experienced New York crews and collaborators from past projects to guide them, the experience as first-time director was less daunting for Norton. He polled directors from his recent films for their thoughts and advice prior to starting this project. Norton lists Milos Forman as his mentor. He notes a different dynamic when directing his own scenes and giving directions or line readings to the other players. He explains the mindset for framing certain shots. The music selected for the film was often performed by friends.
They discuss the casting and reveal some of the discussion and negotiations with a few of the principal actors before they came on board. Both culled from their personal backgrounds or experiences in Catholicism and Judaism for the story. They elaborate on some of the additonal research they did. In sharing some critical reactions and feedback from industry legends who watched the film, they reveal how some high profile writer-directors offered suggestions on how to restructure the story and or add or jettison certain elements.
They also provide commentary for deleted scenes, pointing out that most of these were trimmed for pacing or redundancy. One in particular felt out of place in the film. Without a play all option, listening to these gives a dvd player a workout.