Devexity: New Short Film Stars Eric Burton
A Downward Spiral: Devexity Questions Reality
Words by Abby L. Johnson Photos Courtesy of Devexity
In a world where virtual reality is encroaching on daily life, can people actually choose their own adventure?
Austin-based filmmaker Luke Lidell’s latest project, Devexity, is a short film starring Black Puma’s frontman Eric Burton. The pair co-produced this sci-fi, film noir-inspired exploration of the implications in the advancement of virtual reality technology. As the film unfolds, it becomes apparent that the story spans multiple worlds and time periods, as protagonist Jean Smith, a young detective, attempts to solve a murder and navigate relationships in his multiple realities. The film’s universe hints at what the inevitable implementation of where these burgeoning virtual worlds may lead, the title itself coming from a Latin word meaning downward spiral.
Years before Luke wrote the script for the film, Luke and Eric’s friendship and artistic collaboration began when the pair met at Hole in the Wall following a solo performance by Eric, and they immediately hit it off. In his on-screen debut, Eric plays the lead role of Jean Smith. Luke wrote the part for his friend, noting that “I always had Eric in mind. When I was writing it, it was good to have a visual of a person whom I knew so well. I didn’t know if he was going to say yes. Luckily, he did.”
Eric plays the part with ease with his experience performing as frontman of the Grammy-nominated psych-soul project Black Pumas and childhood theater background informing his portrayal. Expanding on his experience playing Jean, Eric notes that “he seems to be existing in multiple worlds at once, and I really am attracted to that aspect of the story for the fact that I think there’s some truth in being able to choose your own adventure at all times. And so it was really nice to look at different aspects of Jean’s mind and what his life looks like in all of these places.”
The film was shot entirely in Austin in October 2020. “I really love filming in Austin. I tend to write around locations that I know. The front of the Driskill has this old car parked in front all the time. It’s from the thirties. I [thought], ‘I can use that car as a background prop to help set the scene.’ So, yeah, just trying to use the tools at hand.” The film features several other iconic Austin locales, including Native Hostel, an Eastside neighborhood bar. “It’s been really fun to feel like you’re just filming in your neighborhood with your friends. No rules, just go and shoot.” He grins adding, “And that’s exactly what it felt like.”
Currently, Luke is working on setting a premiere date for the film, hoping to get it out to viewers in 2022.
Contact:
devexitymovie.com
@devexitymovie
Luke Lidell: @radruckus
Eric Burton: @ericburton
