Synopsis:

The Great Basin! Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Desert is a film, book and print project that addresses climate change, the severe drought in the Western United States, gun culture, the military’s use of the basin and range of Nevada for atomic testing, cultural stereotypes, my own personal history, and my experiences in this mostly remote area. In the 15 minute short film I am creating complex collages of my still and motion captures made in Nevada with appropriated short clips from Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, recent weather footage, The Lone Ranger, as well as John Wayne’s and other historic films, cartoons, and many other cultural artifacts, in order to speak to the place and its significance.

Review by Andie Karvelis

Filmmaker Eric Weeks takes you on a unique journey centering around his experience in the remote regions of the Western United States.

What intrigued me most about this film was the creative way Weeks used existing footage from the past to bring attention to present day issues. Climate change, the drought and the Nevada military Atomic testing areas to name a few.

You have super quick cuts of footage and dialogue ranging from the local news to The Lone Ranger and even some Davey & Goliath thrown in for good measure. It’s a creative way to drive your point home about these important issues. The moments of overlapping audio and repeating footage leaves you feeling helpless and confused, but I think that is exactly what you’re supposed to feel. Apathy won’t bring about change, we have to feel in order to act. .

Project Links

•  Website

Directed by Eric Weeks

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