Early Reponses to The Ballad of Dorothy Dunn
The following are unsolicited responses from viewers:
To Paul Gray –
I am honored to be among the first to view your newly completed film, “The Ballad of Dorothy Dunn”, and was delighted with what I saw.
The film kept me engrossed from start to finish. I completely identified with the main character as she progressed from light to dark to light again. I thought the acting of this role was extraordinary as the character developed authentically moment to moment throughout the film. The imagery of the motion graphics was stunning while the lyrics of the ballads lent further insight into the narrative.
The film was made entirely out of the Hollywood sphere of influence and is entirely non-derivative of any film I have ever seen. More than highly creative, it was totally original.
I am certain that this unique film will make a significant addition to any independent film festival, and I urge you to pursue that direction.
Zev Braun
Twice-nominated Academy Award Producer
Braun EntertainmentGroup, Beverly Hills, California
July 31
Paul and Gretchen:
Powerful film! Should be seen by more people.
A sad but inspiring film that reassures our faith in the basic goodness of most people.
The filmmakers have used their talents well and hopefully it will make the world a better place.
Sincerely,
Charles and Neva Glenn
Senior citizens, Democratic Party Club members
This movie is the story of a tragic incident in the history of the Labor Movement in Cenral California during the Great depression of the 1930s The action and pacing are intense, neither too fast nor too slow. This allows for plenty of suspense from the film's ominous beginning to its end, which is
at once both foreboding and promising of hope. In this sense, the movie is reminiscent of John Steinbeck's classic novel, In Dubious Battle.
The main character is portrayed by Gretchen Gray, who portrays Dorothy Dunn, a semi-fictionalized interpretation of Dorothy Day, co-founder of the world-famous Catholic Worker. The second major role, played by a relatively unknown actor, dramatizes the short tragic
life of a union organizer who sacrifices his life for what he believes. Both roles are acted with skill, great force, and simplicity. Supporting roles are equally well done.
The scenes are beautifully and realistically photograhed. The shading varies from light to dark, which profoundly affects mood and thought. Finally, background music is beautiful and always relevant.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Gray's movie. I have watched it three times, and with each viewing I have learned something new. Most importantly, perhaps, I can identify with this movie in ways too numerous to say.
Robert Huot,
Original Social Activist and retired Professor of Medieval Literature at the Caliornia Polytechnical University
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