Two pals, a decade and a half, and a wacky movie – that’s the unusual equation behind a film making its debut at the Austin Film Festival. The movie, titled “Subtopia: The Story of Hueco Canyon,” revolves around the mayhem surrounding a fictional homeowners association in Texas.
Luis Caffesse and Clifford Wildman, the film’s writers and directors, recently visited the Texas Standard studio to discuss their journey. They shared that the concept for the mockumentary was born in the aftermath of September 11th and the implementation of the Patriot Act. The duo wanted to shed light on the absurdity of the conflict between liberty and security by setting the story in a small neighborhood HOA.
Despite having previous experience working on TV projects together, creating this film proved to be a much larger endeavor. With a minimal crew comprising just Luis and Cliff, along with a budget of around $1,500, the project stretched out over 15 years.
Life’s unpredictability led to the movie being put on hold, as both filmmakers found themselves occupied with other commitments. However, a milestone birthday for Luis reignited the spark to complete the film. A surprise screening of a beloved movie at a theater orchestrated by Cliff and Luis’ loved ones inspired Luis to reciprocate the gesture by finishing their own movie.
Returning to the project in 2012, Luis and Cliff had to shoot additional footage, film recreations, and polish various elements to bring their vision to life. The completion of the movie was a labor of love aimed at making Cliff laugh and creating a memorable experience for both friends.
The unexpected journey of “Subtopia” culminated in its premiere at the Austin Film Festival. The filmmakers were overwhelmed by the positive reception from audiences and the opportunity to share their creation with friends and family. The collaborative effort with actors who brought authenticity to the mockumentary format was a highlight of the process.
The actors involved in the project expressed joy and surprise at the movie’s completion and premiere, emphasizing the fulfillment they derived from the creative process. Their dedication and talent played a crucial role in bringing the film to fruition, blurring the lines between reality and fiction in the storytelling.
The filmmakers credited the rich talent pool in Austin for contributing to the success of the project, highlighting the enthusiasm and skill of local actors. The experience of creating “Subtopia” underscored the importance of collaboration and dedication in the filmmaking process.
In conclusion, the unlikely journey of “Subtopia” from conception to premiere exemplifies the perseverance, creativity, and camaraderie that drive independent filmmaking. The film’s debut at a prestigious festival like the Austin Film Festival serves as a testament to the passion and commitment of its creators and collaborators.