45365 received the SXSW Grand Jury Award in the Documentary Feature section, and I can't imagine a film more deserving this year (I actually would have liked to see it win best documentary). The film is deeply engaging, warm, extremely funny at moments, and obviously made with a great deal of love and appreciation for the place itself.
With no on-screen interviews, 45365 traces the daily life and interactions within Sidney, Ohio, the hometown of its filmmakers, Bill and Turner Ross. After 9 months of shooting and 500 hours of footage, the filmmakers have crafted a wonderful tribute to home in middle America. The cinematography is nothing short of beautiful, often stunning, showcasing the simplicity and honesty of Sidney and its characters, while capturing their quiet moments of grace and humor. The sound work is creatively layered, creating an elegant unfolding of the film's narrative.
During the Q & A session after the screening, both Bill and Turner Ross were exceedingly down to earth, funny and charming... and I must admit to having formed a mild crush on them both.
While this was the final screening of the film at SXSW, I would encourage everyone to check out 45365 whenever the opportunity arises, and I eagerly await any future projects by these two talented filmmakers.
By the by, I missed an interview with the Ross brothers (lacking my digital device) and unfortunately they left just after the screening. However, they have agreed to a phone interview, which I will dutifully report for those who are interested.
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