How Firm a Foundation - movie review

How Firm A Foundation, is the third recent release from Norman, OK filmmaker, Mickey Reece. Many of you know Mickey as one-man, dissonant art rock band, El Paso Hot Button. And, anyone who knows Mickey, knows that this isn't only his third movie. He's made movies with his friends for a long time. But, only recently, he started taking things a little more seriously and scheduling premiers for his creations at Opolis in Norman. He'll do the same with How Firm A Foundation on December 14.

This film really centers around one prominent character, Bill Donahue, played by the ever improving Kameron Primm. I've been critical in the past about the quality of acting in Mickey's movies. But, the truth is, Mickey probably couldn't get the movies made without the help of his friends and the atmosphere that working with them creates. And, honestly, they're all getting better. Kameron Primm is really quite good as Bill.

Bill Donahue is an entrepreneur. He owns a machine shop and a lawn business. He's a simple, honest, hard-working man who makes an unlikely hero. The film focuses on his relationship with a long-time employee, Joseph (played impressively by Dallos Paz), and a new employee, Ralph (played by director, Mickey Reece).

I don't want to get too into the story, for fear of spoiling it. The film is around 40 minutes long, so I can't say much without giving away a lot. But, this is a good movie. I feel like this is the most "real" of Mickey's movies. Weird though it may be at times, it's a touching story. There's something more human about this movie, than what Reece has given us in the past. And, it's a good thing.

Fans of (way) underground indie music will appreciate the appearances by Dustin Sanchez (We Are Good Friends) as Wilson, Harry Merry as himself, and Ali Harter as Bill's Accountant. The film's score, by Justin Rice and the D. Whitfield Ensemble is fantastic.

Mickey's movies get better and better. And, it's great to see every aspect of the films improve, every time. The acting is better. The music is better. The films look better. And, most importantly, the stories get better. Come out to Opolis on December 14 and see for yourself. Admission is only $3. And, all of your cool friends will be there.

trailer teaser #2: