But obviously, creativity is far more complex than simply having tools at your disposal.
But more than that, he had the creative impulse.
He felt the need to create.
For example, if Panahi is simply reading and describing a screenplay hes already written, is that filmmaking?
Is the simple act of picking up a camera make someone a filmmaker?
Wheres the line and who gets to draw it?
Image via Kanibal Films Distribution
Does that line belong to the filmmakers or to an authoritative government?
This Is Not a Filmis a powerful reminder that we cannot take this creative impulse for granted.
Its not a matter of tools and space.
Its a matter of thoughtfulness and understanding your craft and what makes a film a film.
Burnham and Panahi & Mirtahmasb get this.
Theyre not just making a film to make a film, but more importantly, theyre making a statement.
They have something to say.This Is Not a Filmis well worth hearing that statement.
This Is Not a Filmis on Criterion Channel until September 30th.
KEEP READING:Bo Burnham’s ‘Inside’ Soundtrack Is Coming Soon to Vinyl and CD
