Strictly Background

Strictly Background is an intriguing 2007 documentary that throws light on the little-known world of extras in Hollywood, individuals who form the living sets of movies and TV shows, their faces seen but not often recognized by the audience. Directed by Jason Connell and notated with an outstanding line-up of extras, like Terry Bolo, Geoffrey Gould, and Cecilia Hartfeld, Strictly Background is both entertaining and revealing, showcasing the inner-working of the film industry from an unusual perspective.

The film mainly focuses on the career path and life of seasoned and passionate extras, Terry Bolo, Geoffrey Gould, and Cecilia Hartfeld. Through captivating interviews, snippets of movie sequences, and behind-the-scenes footage, audiences witness their dedication, hope, struggles, and insights. The film is as much an exploration of their individual journeys and personas as it is an examination of the life of extras more widely.

Terry Bolo, known for her extra roles in films like "Forrest Gump" and "Inherit the Wind," carries the thread of passion throughout the movie. Terry has an infectious energy for her work as an extra and displays incredible commitment and dedication to her craft. She brings a heart-wrenching honesty to her portrayal of the relentless work and unassuming realities of the job.

Parallel to Terry's passion, Geoffrey Gould brings the comic relief quotient to the film. Known for his extra roles in "Changeling,” and “The Ring,” among others, Geoffrey's razor-sharp wit, anecdotes, and rich repository of experiences add humor and lightness to the documentary.

Cecilia Hartfeld, another prominent figure, defies the stereotype and reveals diverse sides to being an extra, including the surprising degree of competition and the underestimated aspects of skill involved in the work. Her story presents a different facet of this oft-overlooked profession, one that is imbued with method and talent.

The documentary doesn't shy away from addressing the prosaic realities of the industry, including the long waiting hours, barely negligible recognition, and the seemingly insurmountable hurdles that these background artists have to face. Yet, amid all the struggle and uncertainty, the spirit of resilience is evident in these artists' stories. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, they continue their journey in the industry, hoping for their moment in the spotlight.

Fans of cinema will find Strictly Background a fascinating journey that explores both the art and the business of filmmaking from a distinctive perspective. This film expertly balances the inspirational and the aspirational aspects of being an extra, making audiences respect the unsung heroes of the silver screen more. Jason Connell's documentarian skill is evident in the seamless weaving of personal narrative with broader structural elements of the industry, making it a compelling watch.

Moreover, the film makes great use of archival footage, framed photographs, film-strips, and behind-the-scenes snippets of movie sets. These elements help in visual storytelling, allowing the audience to understand and empathize with the relentless passion, the unceasing pursuit of a dream, and the harsh realities these extras face.

Featuring appearances from many familiar movie and TV scenes, Strictly Background becomes a guessing game of sorts for the audience too, challenging them to spot the featured extras in their many roles. This aspect of the film adds an interactive element, making the viewing experience even more enjoyable.

In summary, Strictly Background is a heartfelt, moving, and at times, comical tribute to unseen Hollywood heroes, satiating the curiosity of cinephiles and casual viewers alike. The film is a reminder of the hard work that forms the bedrock of the glamorous movie industry and the unsung heroes whose contributions all too often go unnoticed. It is a fascinating peek into the less-explored aspects of Hollywood, making it a must-watch documentary for all movie lovers.