AmDocs 2019 – Look Closer: The Rise and Fall of Robert Benfer
In 2013, online clay animator Robert Benfer scammed hundreds of his fans out of thousands of dollars and has continued to become less of the independent film icon he used to be, though his influence on video creators remains to this day.
Interview with Writer/Director/Editor Cruz Moore
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I had been a fan of Robert’s work from 2005-2013. His website, Knox’s Korner, was absolutely foundational when it came to showing me that you could make films completely on your own with so very little. But when he scammed me and hundreds of his fans out of thousands of dollars, it was disillusioning.
For five years we all had to settle for the fact that Robert did not care about our situation, we were not going to get our money back, and we were certainly not going to get an explanation or an apology. So I decided to make a film that would chronicle Robert’s career, the effect he had on young filmmakers, and give insight into his scam.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
The film’s niche story of independent online success gives audiences a window into a world they never knew existed and how that world came crumbling down for one filmmaker and those who believed in him.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
The film is a somber reminder to never meet your heroes and shows how a talented independent artist can fall from grace no matter how obscure they are. These themes embody the spirit of individual success against all odds, coming to terms with one's own nostalgic aspirations, and learning from others' mistakes.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
The film was originally going to be a short retrospective, but as time went on, Robert's story lent itself to a full feature documentary.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
The film has received an enormous amount of positive feedback from Robert's fans and newcomers alike. My goal was to provide them with a definitive look at Robert's career, his influence on young filmmakers, and how he ended up scamming so many people. Many viewers have appreciated the endeavor.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
The praise has proven that no matter how obscure a subject matter is there is still an audience who remembers and follows the niche history. It's a unique type of kindred appreciation.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
This film's story continues to thrive because of the support of viewers and audiences who have taken the time to learn about it. I hope more and more people continue to watch and share this story.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
Film festival directors and journalists could help this film greatly by continuing to share it with new audiences who are looking for esoteric stories about independent film and its bond with the internet age.
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Short films, trailers, music videos, I’m always creating something new at www.cruzmoore.com.
Interview: March 2019
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
Look Closer: The Rise and Fall of Robert Benfer
In 2013, online clay animator Robert Benfer scammed hundreds of his fans out of thousands of dollars and has continued to become less of the independent film icon he used to be, though his influence on video creators remains to this day.
Length: 46:19
Director: Cruz Moore
Producer: Cruz Moore
Writer: Cruz Moore
About the writer, director and producer:
With a life’s dedication to cinema, CRUZ MOORE is an independent director & editor who strives to make creative and diverse content. From short films to trailers to music videos to documentaries, he's always creating something new.
Key cast: Karina Alcantar, Ashley Davies, Lawrence Devora, James Madala, Clayton Martin, Conner Nyberg, Garrett Perry, Charles Slemmons, Skye Sonomura, Joseph Valles, Taylor Wade
Looking for: journalists, film festival directors
Facebook: The Rise and Fall of Robert Benfer
Website: cruzmoore.com
Other: Vimeo
Funders: Self-funded
Where can I watch it next and in the coming month? American Documentary Film Festival 2019 / Palm Springs, CA - April 2nd, 1:30