Anna Daniels
Is This the Future of Film? Analyzing the Unique Appeal of ‘Hundreds of Beavers’
When a prominent filmmaker like Daniel Scheinert, known for his work on the award-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once, labels a movie as “the future of cinema,” it certainly captures one’s attention. The film in question, Hundreds of Beavers, helmed by Mike Cheslik, has made waves since its festival circuit debut in 2022, culminating in a VOD release in early 2024. With a modest budget of $150,000, it serves as a powerful reminder that impactful cinema doesn’t necessarily require a hefty financial backing.
Rendered in black and white and drawing heavily from the slapstick traditions of the early 20th century, Hundreds of Beavers presents a nostalgic experience for contemporary audiences. The plot follows Ryland Tews as an unfortunate applejack producer, fighting off an invasion of beavers while attempting to woo a merchant’s daughter. The film’s distinct visual humor and storytelling approach distinguish it from today’s dialogue-driven productions, inviting viewers back to an era where physical comedy reigned supreme.
With a notable 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 82 Metacritic score, the film has been celebrated for its creativity and entertainment factor, despite receiving scant media attention. Its charm stems partly from its indie roots; filmed in the rural areas of Wisconsin and Michigan over three months from 2019 to 2020, the production embodies a genuine authenticity often missing from larger studio films.
Despite Scheinert’s enthusiastic support, Hundreds of Beavers has not received the wide theatrical release many believe it deserves, only being shown in 14 theaters across the Great Lakes area. This raises questions about whether its specialized appeal might hinder its success or perhaps enhance its chances of becoming a beloved cult classic.
The potential direction of cinema could very well be illustrated by films like Hundreds of Beavers, which challenge traditional norms and embrace creative storytelling. It serves as a reminder that the most impactful cinematic experiences can arise from outside mainstream channels.
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Hundreds of Beavers stands out as a celebration of creativity and nostalgic filmmaking, taking viewers back to a time when the essence of cinema was rooted in visual narrative. Its limited budget and humorous style symbolize a significant shift from traditional Hollywood productions, validating Scheinert’s commendation. This film challenges the industry to prioritize originality and craftsmanship.
What qualities do you think define a film as “the future of cinema”? Would you consider watching Hundreds of Beavers?
