The American Astronaut • The Next Reel

“I’ve never understood this joke, but then I’ve never been to Earth.”Shooting for the Stars on a Shoestring BudgetIn 1996, writer/director Cory McAbee set out to make a wholly unique film that blended elements of science fiction, Western, comedy and musical genres. With a background in music and short films, McAbee threw everything he had into crafting the world of The American Astronaut. Shot on stark black and white 35mm film, this low-budget labor of love caught the attention of the Film Independent Spirit Awards, earning a Best Cinematography nomination. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the 2002 Film Independent Spirit Awards Best Cinematography Nominees series with a conversation about McAbee’s 2001 film The American Astronaut.Traversing the Quirky Universe of The American AstronautOur discussion launches into the film's fascinating blend of genre tropes and cinematic influences. The lo-fi special effects, particularly in depicting space travel, somehow work perfectly in the established universe. We marvel at the creative framing and cinematography that elevate the low-budget production design. The memorable musical numbers get us singing along. At the heart of the story, we explore how this space Western playfully taps into themes of masculinity and loneliness across the cosmos.Further Points of DiscussionAppreciating the authentic, understated performancesNoting the film's multitude of cinematic influencesStruggling with the underdeveloped antagonist storylineReveling in the earworm-inducing soundtrackComparing The American Astronaut to other quirky genre-bendersA Flawed but Ambitious DebutThe American Astronaut is a testament to the power of a singular creative vision. While the ending stumbles a bit in its execution, the totality of Cory McAbee's debut feature is an undeniably striking and inventive piece of independent filmmaking. The cinematography rightfully earns its place among the Film Independent Spirit Awards nominees. Despite the budgetary limitations, this is a film that sticks with you long after the credits roll. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Film SundriesWatch this on Amazon or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxdThe Next Reel’s Family of Film PodcastsCinema ScopeThe Film BoardFreely Adapted (coming soon!)Movies We LikeThe Next ReelThe Next Reel Shorts (retired)One Minute for Old Men (coming soon!)The Saturday Matinée (retired)Silver Linings (retired)Sitting in the DarkThree of a Kind (retired)Trailer Rewind (retired) Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’v…