4 out of 5 stars (one of the best of the year)
Watching Create or Die lifted my spirits. In my time writing reviews, I’ve praised films I’ve loved and snarkily eviscerated those I’ve hated, always trying to be as honest as I can. Create or Die was a great reminder of all the effort and passion that goes into making a movie on the creative end, regardless of what we critics think. It’s a documentary celebrating micro-budget filmmaking and the people who pour everything into it, and my only complaint is that I wish it was longer.
Micro-budget filmmaker David Axe has dedicated himself to making one movie per year and has kept it up for almost seven (skipping 2021). He and others who worked with him recount the production of one such movie, Acorn, which evolved into his most complex project to date. From scripting to working with the cast and crew to all the little unexpected curveballs thrown at him, Axe and his team were determined to see their vision through, sharing his insight, humor, and passion for a little film that could.
Create or Die is a thoroughly entertaining watch for anyone interested in films or filmmaking. The tone is largely lighthearted, the interviewees do a good job explaining various aspects of working on movies within the independent side of the industry, and, more personally, it gave me a new appreciation for the specific kind of films Axe makes. While every film requires an enormous amount of effort, passion, and cohesion to work properly, seeing and hearing about all of the different moving parts, unique challenges, and passion from everyone involved on this less-acknowledged level of filmmaking was a joy to see. I only wish it was longer (it clocks in at 1 hour and 8 minutes) so I could hear Axe and his colleagues delve more into things, but as is, it’s one of my favorites this year. Create or Die shines a welcome light on micro-budget filmmaking that shows the passion, love, and dedication that goes into making movies regardless of their price tag. See it.
Rated R for Some Language