24X36: A Movie About Movie Posters

24X36: A Movie About Movie Posters is a 2016 Canadian documentary film directed by Kevin Burke, produced by Snowfort Pictures and Post No Joes Productions. This fantastic exploration into the world of film posters delves into the culture, design, and history of this under-appreciated art form, bringing to light its significance, not only in the cinema industry but in the broader artistic community.

The documentary stars Paul Ainsworth, Dave Alexander, and Andrea Alvin among others, all representing different facets of the poster design industry. The film successfully carries the viewer into the world of creativity and nostalgia, offering deeper insights into the commercial art form, and the artists who breathe life into it.

The film harkens back to the golden era of illustrated movie posters, delving into the history of this unique art form and its gradual decline with the advent of new technology. Helmed by the talented Paul Ainsworth, a significant voice in the modern designer poster scene, the viewer is guided through the evolution of poster designs, tracking the shift from traditional painting techniques to digital manipulation. The contrast between these two worlds of poster creation, each with its unique anesthetic value, is brought into stark relief.

The film also introduces Dave Alexander, editor-in-chief of Rue Morgue Magazine, an international horror magazine. Alexander provides a contrasting perspective as a lover of horror movie posters and an advocate for the art's recognition in commercial spheres. His commentary offers a deeper understanding of the genre-specific role movie posters have played and continue to play in attracting audiences.

Andrea Alvin, another noteworthy cast member is a talented artist who straddles the worlds of traditional art and digital manipulation. She paints a vivid picture of the industry's evolution, her journey offering poignant insights into the dynamic interaction between film and its audience, solidifying movie posters as crucial elements in shaping a film's identity and legacy.

24X36: A Movie About Movie Posters also looks into the resurgence of illustration in contemporary movie poster design, showing a palpable appreciation for the bygone techniques of hand-drawn illustrations. This highlights a shift back towards the artistry that defined the classic era. It is not just a nostalgic reminder of the vintage era, but an examination of the resurgence of this artistic medium, marking an exciting opportunity for established artists and emerging talents alike.

These different perspectives provide a comprehensive and knowledgeable commentary on the evolution of the genre. They ensure an immersive viewing experience, offering both history and culture of movie posters while emphasizing the necessity for innovation and expression within this art form.

Another striking aspect of the film is the plethora of dazzling and iconic poster art featured throughout the documentary. Viewers are treated to a visual feast of ground-breaking imagery that spans decades of cinema. This eye-catching parade of artistic works matches the detailed dialogue, reinforcing the narrative and illustrating the points made by the documentary's contributors. The assortment of all featured posters, from cult classics to modern-day blockbusters, adds depth and context to the discussion, aptly showcasing the journey movie posters have taken over the years.

While its primary focus is on the artwork, 24X36: A Movie About Movie Posters also manage to give ample insights into the commercial aspects – exploring the supply and demand of movie poster art, the influence of marketing trends on design aesthetics, and the rising trend of collector culture in the industry.

In essence, the film is both a celebration of past, present, and future movie posters and a tribute to the artists who brought them to life. It's thought-provoking, informative, visually appealing, and filled with a genuine love for the art it describes, making it a must-watch not only for cinephiles and art lovers, but also for anyone interested in the process of visual storytelling. This film is a wonderfully crafted documentary that offers a valuable illustration of how the modest movie poster plays a vital role in the grand universe of moviemaking.