I Am Not A Hipster

I Am Not A Hipster is a deeply introspective and emotionally charged independent film, directed and written by Destin Daniel Cretton, that follows the story of Brook, a reclusive and introverted musician who is struggling to come to terms with the untimely death of his mother, a celebrated artist who was the center of his family's creative world.

Dominic Bogart delivers an outstanding performance as Brook, a young musician with a broken soul who is unable to connect with his own feelings or those of others. He spends his days in isolation, avoiding his sister and friends, and drowning his sorrows in alcohol and drugs. The only thing that seems to bring him any solace is his music, which he creates in secret in his small, messy apartment. However, his detachment and apathy to the world around him will soon be challenged when his estranged father arrives in town for his mother's death anniversary.

As the film unfolds, we get to know Brook's troubled past and the wounds that continue to haunt him. We learn about his mother's influence on his artistic pursuits, her death, and how it has affected his family and his own artistic expression. We also see how his relationship with his father is strained and complicated, as he struggles to connect with him and come to terms with his own grief.

What makes I Am Not A Hipster stand out is the way it captures the essence of the San Diego indie music scene and the complexities of the creative process. Alvaro Orlando, who plays the lead singer of a band, does an excellent job of portraying the frustration and desperation that comes with trying to make it in the music industry. Tammy Minoff, who plays Brook's love interest, is also noteworthy in her depiction of a woman who is equally broken yet determined to move forward in life.

The film's visual style is striking, with a moody and grainy aesthetic that reflects the melancholic atmosphere of the story perfectly. The score, which features original compositions by Joel P. West, is also a standout aspect of the film, with its poignant and evocative melodies that complement the visuals and dialogue impeccably.

Ultimately, I Am Not A Hipster is a poignant and deeply moving film about grief, family, and the power of music to heal. It is an intimate and honest portrait of a young artist who is struggling to find his place in the world and come to terms with his own emotions. With its raw and heartfelt emotions, the film avoids cliches and instead offers a unique and captivating perspective on the power of art to help us explore and heal our wounds.