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Jasper Mall (film)
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Wikipedia article
'Jasper Mall' is a 2020 documentary film directed by Bradford Thomason and Brett Whitcomb. It revolves around the Jasper Mall, a dying mall in Jasper, Alabama.[https://filmthreat.com/reviews/jasper-mall/ Film Threat]
Synopsis
The film often revolves around Mike McClelland, a former zookeeper, who serves as the mall's superintendent and works in a security and caretaking role. The mall, which opened in 1981, has recently lost two of its anchors, Kmart and JCPenney. As a result, foot traffic has declined and the parking lot is often barren. The only remaining anchor store is Belk and according to one shopper, If Belk goes, we are in deep woo-woo.
The film also follows the day-to-day operations of the remaining 20 or so store owners with a focus on the slowdown of customers. The mall's frequent visitors including groups of mall walkers and domino players are also frequently shown. Also chronicled are events hosted by the mall such as a carnival, visits from Santa Claus and an ensemble of singers.
Towards the end of the film, more shops including Subway, Grady's Sandwich Shop, Robin's Nest Flowers & Gifts and Jewelry Doctor all close or move.
Release
'Jasper Mall' premiered at January 27, 2020 at the Slamdance Film Festival and to the general public on June 23, 2020.
Reception
Critical response
On Rotten Tomatoes of reviews of the film were positive, with an average critic rating of .Ethan Brehm of 'SPOILER' Magazine named it the best film of the year.
Production
'Jasper Mall' was co-directed and co-produced by Bradford Thomason and Brett Whitcomb. Cinematography was also directed by Whitcomb. The Jasper Mall was chosen as the site of the film because it had not been remodeled since it opened in 1981. The film was shot throughout 2018 and McClelland would alert the directors about any events that were occurring at the mall. Thomason and Whitcomb would often sit in the food court and wait for a scene to develop. The soundtrack contains a collection of songs by the musicians HAHA Mart, Chayse Porter, and Baker Knight. The soundtrack was released on vinyl and cassette via the Alabama-based independent record label [https://www.earthlibraries.com/catalog/jasper-mall-soundtrack-12-vinyl-lp Earth Libraries].
Awards
The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Slamdance Film Festival and won the Best Alabama Film award at the Sidewalk Film Festival.
References
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