Director:Jeff Santo
Stars: Troy Duffy, Nick Nicholson, Sanel Budimlic, David Della Rocco, Keith Jackson, Bob Rubin, & Jeff Santo.
Santo Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 96 minutes
Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars
“Off The Boulevard” is not only an entertaining film and but also a very informative documentary. It shows how is to be independent in the entertainment business or in life in general. The film follow seven artists: two musicians (Keith Jackson, Nick Nicholson), two filmmakers (Jeff Santo, Troy Duffy), two actors (David della Rocco, Sanel Budimlic), and one comedian (Bob Rubin). It shows that no matter what you are trying to accomplish in life, it is a struggle especially when working independently. It is definitely aimed to inspire people out there to keep trying in their careers and doing what they love.
The director Jeff Santo is known best for his film “Liar’s Poker” but he also has been burned many times by the system. Troy Duffy, the creator of “The Boondock Saints” is the same way. He had has many struggles after making the first “The Boondock Saints” and his side is told here. The musicians in the film Keith Jackson, Nick Nicholson, strive in the business to get their music heard. Bob Rubin is a comic that just want his jokes to be heard. We visit the life of David della Rocco, who is a struggling independent actor. Sanel Budimlic escaped the Bosnian War to come to America with hopes to live as an actor. Besides the seven artists, the film also reaches out to other industry well-knowns such as: Dan Haggerty (Grizzly Adams), Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), Peter Fonda (Easy Rider) and Sonny Barger (Hell’s Angels). They give advice and life lessons about the meaning of being and working independently.
I must acknowledge that Jeff Santo sure did a great job directing this documentary. The editing is fantastic and the film is well paced. Since the film is focusing on two musicians, one punk rock and the other country…you know the film is going to have some kick ass tunes in it for sure. If you are into film-making, especially independent then this is a must see for you. Click here to support being independent and pick up a copy of this film. Spread the word!
