Indie film 'Bubble' goes pop

Steven Soderbergh is no stranger to experimentation when it comes to filmmaking. While he holds interest in the Hollywood arena with the likes of "Ocean's Eleven/Twelve," and "Out of Sight," one cannot say that Soderbergh has ever abandoned his more artistic and independent roots. Sure he's had a few blockbuster successes; his career is also full of unique endeavors from the sci-fi surrealism of "Solaris" to the gangster art piece that is "The Limey." With Soderbergh's latest "experiment" named "Bubble," he once again shows us that the smallest experiment can hold large rewards. \n"Bubble" is all about simplicity; easily accomplished by utilizing non-professional actors placed in small town Ohio. Martha (Debbie Doebereiner) lives at home and cares for her elderly father. Kyle (Dustin James Ashley) lives with his mother. Together they are employed by a doll factory where their mundane lives unfold on a daily basis without change. However, one day they come to work to learn there's a new employee by the name of Rose (Misty Dawn Wilkins) and while it seems like their lives will continue following the same automaton routines, Rose is murdered within a week. Change is supposed to be good right? Or perhaps change is never a good thing? That's for our townsfolk to decide.\nAt a rather slim 73-minute running time, Soderbergh's film of simple characters that carry out simple tasks is one you can't stop watching. The camera rarely moves and takes a documentarian leisure as we are placed in geometrically precise sight lines. Are we seeing events unfold as just another person in the room, or are we being treated as voyeurs in small town USA? \nWith his non-professional cast and a script penned by previous collaborator Coleman Hough ("Full Frontal"), Steven Soderbergh creates a film that contains such simplicity that it seems almost enigmatic. The performances excel because they are real. The job is real, their lifestyles are real and murder in this fashion is very real. For Soderbergh, reality is his canvas to make the ordinary out to be something greater. \nJust like the film itself is an experiment, "Bubble" is also an experiment with multi-platform release windows -- an industry first. Within the span of only a couple days, "Bubble" was released in theatres, HDNet internet download and DVD formats -- the first of six films that Soderbergh intends to make in the same fashion. While some seem to attack the film's release as a sort of "screw you" to theatrical exhibition, people forget to realize there is a fine monetary line between spending $6 to $8 for a ticket and $20 to $30 for a DVD. \nFor those willing to take the more expensive chance, the supplements are worthwhile. Two commentary tracks are provided: one with Soderbergh and music video auteur Mark Romanek, the other with screenwriter Hough and the cast. The former is the most rewarding as we get to hear Soderbergh discuss the film to great detail; the latter is just nice to hear the cast discuss their experiences. You're also treated to a short making-of segment, interviews, the bizarre theatrical trailer and a few other goodies. \nIn short, Soderbergh's simple experiment is simply a success.