American Independents DVD

HALF NELSON (2006) Dir. Ryan Fleck – Ryan Gosling (Drive) turns in a stunning, Oscar-nominated performance in the smart, moving and politically engaged HALF NELSON, winner of multiple Independent Spirit Awards and Official Selection at Sundance Film Festival 2006. Special features: Commentary, interview and audience Q&A with the filmmakers, outtakes, deleted & extended scenes.

SUGAR (2008) Dir. Ryan Fleck & Anna Boden – Boden and Fleck’s powerful and ambitious follow-up to their startlingly assured feature debut, Half Nelson, SUGAR is an original and provocative portrait of the modern-day immigrant experience by two of America’s most distinctive young filmmakers. Official Selection Sundance Film Festival 2008. Special features: Interviews with the directors and cast.

DARK HORSE (2011) Dir. Todd Solondz – Acclaimed writer/director Todd Solondz (Happiness) examines the loss of youth in this darkly hilarious comedy, featuring a cast led by Jordan Gelber (Boardwalk Empire), Selma Blair (Cruel Intentions), Christopher Walken (The Deer Hunter) and Mia Farrow (Rosemary’s Baby).

BALLAST (2008) Dir. Lance Hammer – A double prize winner at the Sundance Film Festival, BALLAST is a stunningly evocative story of personal catastrophe and communal redemption. Special features: “Ballast Scene Development” (36 mins)

HONEYDRIPPER (2007) Dir. John Sayles – The godfather of American independent cinema, writer/director John Sayles (Lone Star, City of Hope), brings the birth of rock ‘n’ roll to life with electrifying effect, with Danny Glover (Lethal Weapon) leading a stellar ensemble cast. Special features: Commentary with writer/director John Sayles.