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65% Critic Match
Gifted and Challenged: The Making of 'Shortbus'
6.5 / 10• 2007• 31m•NR• English
Documentary
Storyline
A look at the unusual process used in the making of the film Shortbus (2006) featuring interviews, behind the scenes footage and clips from the feature film. Director John Cameron Mitchell starts with the concept of using real sex in a film with a positive message. The cast of unknowns is selected from homemade audition tapes and then a callback audition workshop. More acting workshops are used to develop the characters and script. The project overcomes a number of obstacles and the rest of the film's development is followed up until its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.
Cast & Crew
Raphael Barker
Rob
Lead
Lindsay Beamish
Severin
Justin Vivian Bond
Himself
Jay Brannan
Ceth
Jonathan Caouette
Himself
Shanti Carson
Leah
MC
Miek Coccia
Himself
Paul Dawson
James / Himself
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. M. Sean Kaminsky's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
3.0
“Every frame feels alive. Gifted and Challenged: The Making of 'Shortbus' is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
