Fifteen seconds of film, shot each day, every day for the entire year of 2005. That’s what happened when Fairfax-based filmmaker Rich Bernett put a load of new video equipment to good, weird and disturbing use. No rags-to-riches protagonists. No overcoming-of-the-odds. No tour-de-force endings. Thankfully, “Project 15” defies strict movie rules by chronicling a year of Rich’s life with snacksize footage, both candid and created. The film, perhaps just as aptly described as an explorative work of art, is structured chronologically, with thoughtful transitions through music (written and composed by Bernett) and inventive editing. Vignettes vary from scenic minimalism to sci-fi spiked scenes of warped images and original animation. And while 365 days could make for more random string of events, Bernett nicely maintains a few recurring narratives throughout the film. Plots as arbitrary as his dogs’ spiral decline into total neurosis, and as meaningful as the birth of his new business. “Project 15” captures a good rain fall with as much wonder as it captures a bloody sneeze. And you would have to be half robot, or easily offended by fun, not to find yourself eye-up to the keyhole that is “Project 15.” Check out the trailer and clips at www.TheSoundOfMachines.com

Forms: Animation, Documentary, Experimental, Narrative Fiction, Multimedia, Feature, Music Video
Animation Techniques: 2D Computer, Animated Objects, Drawing on Cels, Experimental, Ink on Paper, Mixed Media, Rotoschope
Genres: Alternative, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Sci-Fi Action, Underground, Horror, Thriller, Sci-Fi, Musical, Nature, Avant-garde, B-movie, Cult, Film Noir, Fantasy, Independent, Magical Realism, Wildlife, Road Trip, Spoof, Sport, Surreal, Environmental, Science, Mockumentary, Satire, Action/Adventure, Reality, Docu-Drama, Supernatural, Art, Spiritual