Short Film Review

Film Info:
In the midst of a publishing revolution, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, one of America's most storied institutions of journalism, is experimenting with new tools to tell stories in preparation for the end of print in the digital era.

Written By: James Kicklighter
Directed By: James Kicklighter
Genre: Doc
25 Minutes

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IndyRed.com

DIGITAL EDITION ( 2016 )

  Pleasantly surprised is the term I'd use when describing my thoughts on "Digital Edition" from James Kicklighter. Don't get me wrong though, I've seen projects from Mr. Kicklighter before, and expected nothing less than a well rounded, polished experience. What I didn't expect was a topic featuring a much broader scope than the title suggests. Being equally honest, I half expected a short film touching up on nothing but social media. The Digital Editions of our time. What I ended up getting was a fast paced, well thought out documentary; with a little bit taken and displayed from each plate. The "plates" containing media history, it's present form and a splash of future insight. I also can't say I agree with all the opinions expressed during this intervie... err... film. Mainly when speaking on print media becoming completely extinct. I've always felt a place for the "Morning or weekly Paper" will always exist. I do however, understand the points presented when thinking it could go the way of the doe-doe.
  When it comes to "Digital Edition", we have a fine short film covering a lot of different aspects from the industry, and doing so in an extremely well put together way.
  Normally, this section of the write-up is reserved for technical thoughts on a production. When it comes to a documentary however, there really isn't that much to write about; except maybe the graphics used and audio itself. I'm quite pleased to write that both are stellar. "Digital Edition" doesn't look (or sound) cheap. It's well paced, has some great graphics, and as I'm sure you've guessed, contains some awesome content. I've come to expect nothing less. "Digital Edition" would look right at home on your favorite television channel.
  The thoughts expressed from industry professionals are interesting and more than a little informative. People in "the industry" may find things a little less interesting than say... I did, but that won't diminish the experience. Even if you know this stuff, it's put together so well you just can't help but watching. Now days, anyone can pull out their phone and shoot a documentary of their own. The problem is that you can always tell. I call it the difference between a YouTube video and a real one. James Kicklighter has a "real one" here. The spit and polish makes "Digital Edition" shine, and the information contained within is the icing on the cake. Many of the elder generation may miss the old ways, hearing how the morning edition is "Hot off the press". Even they however, can't find fault with having a faster system. One they can access almost any time with the swipe of a finger. But for me, one thing is clear. I love my morning paper and coffee. It's a tradition. I've tried a laptop or phone and it's just not the same; but even I can't deny how much I love to pop online and check things out later in the day. I guess that means I'm a contributor to the changes as well. Everything changes. Right? Extra Extra.
-JT

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