The Secret Handshake ( 2015 )

The Secret Handshake (2015): A Deep Dive into Art, Identity, and Authenticity in the Digital Age

The Secret Handshake, a 2015 independent film directed by Howie Michael Smith and written by Kevin Roeten, is a nuanced and insightful exploration of the contemporary art world, the complexities of identity formation in the digital age, and the ever-blurring lines between authenticity and artifice. Far from a simple satire, the film delves into the anxieties and aspirations of two aspiring artists, Jamie (played by Avery Monsen) and Maurice (played by Kevin Roeten), as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Los Angeles art scene. The film's strength lies in its keen observation of the social dynamics and intellectual posturing that permeate this world, coupled with its thoughtful commentary on the impact of social media and technology on artistic expression and self-perception.

Synopsis: A Quest for Artistic Validation

The film centers on Jamie and Maurice, two recent college graduates struggling to find their footing in the competitive Los Angeles art world. Jamie, a talented painter, grapples with self-doubt and the pressure to conform to prevailing artistic trends. Maurice, a performance artist with a penchant for the absurd and provocative, seeks attention and validation through increasingly outlandish acts. Their contrasting personalities and artistic approaches create a dynamic tension that drives the narrative. As they navigate gallery openings, art parties, and awkward networking events, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including established artists, pretentious critics, and wealthy collectors, each contributing to the film's satirical portrayal of the art world's superficiality.

The film follows their individual journeys of self-discovery as they grapple with questions of artistic integrity, the pursuit of fame, and the meaning of success. Jamie's struggle to find her authentic voice is juxtaposed with Maurice's relentless pursuit of notoriety, often at the expense of genuine connection. Their relationship is tested as they face setbacks and triumphs, ultimately forcing them to confront their own motivations and the true meaning of their artistic endeavors.

Themes: Identity, Authenticity, and the Digital Age

The Secret Handshake explores several key themes that resonate with contemporary audiences:

• Identity Formation: The film examines how young people construct their identities in a world saturated with information and constantly evolving social norms. Jamie and Maurice's struggles reflect the challenges of defining oneself in the face of external pressures and internal anxieties. The film raises questions about the role of art in shaping identity and the potential for artistic expression to be both a source of liberation and a tool for self-deception.
• Authenticity vs. Artifice: The film interrogates the concept of authenticity in a world where image and perception often trump substance. The characters are constantly engaged in acts of self-presentation, carefully crafting their personas to fit the expectations of the art world. The film challenges viewers to consider the difference between genuine artistic expression and calculated performance, questioning whether true authenticity is even possible in a mediated environment.
• The Impact of Social Media: Social media plays a significant role in the film, reflecting its pervasive influence on contemporary culture. The characters use social media platforms to promote their work, cultivate their online personas, and seek validation from their peers. The film explores the potential for social media to amplify artistic voices but also highlights the dangers of succumbing to the pressures of online popularity and the temptation to prioritize image over substance.
• The Commodification of Art: The film critiques the commercialization of art and the ways in which artistic value can be determined by market forces rather than intrinsic merit. The characters' encounters with wealthy collectors and gallery owners expose the often-arbitrary nature of artistic success and the potential for artistic expression to be reduced to a commodity.

Character Analysis

The strength of The Secret Handshake lies in its well-developed characters, each grappling with their own unique set of anxieties and aspirations:

• Jamie (Avery Monsen): Jamie is a talented but insecure painter who struggles to reconcile her artistic vision with the expectations of the art world. She is torn between her desire for recognition and her commitment to artistic integrity. Her character represents the challenges faced by artists who strive to create meaningful work in a world that often prioritizes superficiality.
• Maurice (Kevin Roeten): Maurice is a performance artist who embraces the absurd and provocative in his quest for attention. He is driven by a relentless ambition and a desire to shock and entertain. His character represents the dangers of prioritizing notoriety over genuine artistic expression and the potential for performance art to become a form of self-aggrandizement.

The supporting characters, though often eccentric, contribute to the film's satirical portrayal of the art world. From the pretentious art critics to the wealthy collectors, each character embodies a particular aspect of the art world's complex social dynamics.

Cinematic Style and Technique

The Secret Handshake employs a naturalistic cinematic style that enhances the film's sense of realism. The film's use of handheld cameras and intimate close-ups creates a sense of immediacy and intimacy, drawing viewers into the characters' emotional lives. The film's soundtrack, featuring indie rock and electronic music, complements the film's contemporary setting and youthful energy.

The film's visual aesthetic is understated, reflecting the film's focus on character development and thematic exploration rather than flashy visual effects. The film's use of color is subtle and nuanced, reflecting the characters' emotional states and the film's overall tone.

Critical Reception and Legacy

The Secret Handshake received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its sharp writing, insightful character development, and nuanced exploration of contemporary issues. The film was particularly lauded for its realistic portrayal of the art world and its thoughtful commentary on the impact of social media on artistic expression. While the film may not have achieved widespread commercial success, it has garnered a dedicated following among independent film enthusiasts and those interested in the intersection of art, technology, and identity.

The film's legacy lies in its ability to capture the anxieties and aspirations of a generation grappling with the challenges of navigating the digital age. The Secret Handshake remains a relevant and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of identity formation, the pursuit of authenticity, and the ever-evolving landscape of the art world.

Table: Character Comparison

Table: Key Themes and Examples

Table: Film Credits