Overview
Film techniques are always evolving and now a Canadian duo have explored what will likely become a staple of film festivals in future years — filming entirely on the screens of our devices. It is unlike anything you have seen before, yet like everything you see every day.
Ryerson University film students Walter Woodman and Patrick Cederberg used the innovative technique to explore the sincerity of online identity, privacy and connections in this digital age. The 17-minute-long film, titled Noah, debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival this week and has made waves online since.
The film opens with Noah typing in his computer password, and his successful login reveals a desktop wallpaper of his girlfriend and himself, immediately providing context. It then proceeds to tell the story of their break-up, which occurs after Noah overanalyses some of her Facebook updates.
All the time you cannot help saying to yourself, 'no you fool, don't do it.' This is because it succeeds in being surprisingly compelling for a work that involves watching people Skype, Facebook, text and Chatroulette. We can connect as we have all used these mediums (or are at least familiar with them) and we thus appreciate the multitasking that brings about Noah's seeming disconnection and insincerity.
The immensely intricate details of the film, including the online profiles created (and cleverly employed to promote the film) and the 'Cuddle Jams' playlist, allow you to immerse yourself in the film. However, the truly compelling message of the film resonates when it distracts you. The Facebook notification noises will make you wonder if it is yours or Noah's that is receiving messages, driving home the concern that we are too connected and concerned with our digital self and the fallacies associated with it.
Be warned, you will see unexpected and unwanted penis thanks to Chatroulette, so it's NSFW, but this film is a must-watch exploration of our online presence and how making connections online is no substitute for real-world conversation.
