California Is a Place: The State in Four Acts

This collection of four short films were produced, directed, and shot by Zackary Canepari and Drea Cooper (ZCDC). Each one looks at different aspects of what it means to be a Californian.

Borderland: It is real and striking -- in some places it stands 18 feel tall and looks like the gates of Mordor, in others it looks like it was put together with a stapler. It runs from the Colorado River directly into the Pacific. Physically it's confusing. Politically it's puzzling. Ideologically, it's complicated. But for Dick and Ron, both who live within a few miles of the CA/Mexican border, defending it is simply a matter of protecting themselves and preserving their own beliefs.

Big Vinny: Once upon a time he was a local celebrity -- the voice and face of a successful used car business in Alameda, CA. Today, everything has changed. The business is dead, the lots sit empty, and Big Vinny is out of work. But he still remembers the good times.

Scrapertown: In order to become a member of the Original Scraper Bike Team, you must be a resident of Oakland, CA, at least 7 years or older, retain a 3.0 grade point average, and create your own Scraper Bike. After ten rides the Scraper Bike King and his captains will decide if your bike is up to standards to be considered a member. Come along for the ride.

Cannonball: Fresno was the California Dream. Own a car, house, pool -- everyone wanted it, and the wonderful world of credit made it possible. But now, with foreclosures running wild, the dream is dry. Thousands of pools in the back of foreclosed houses are festering in the hot Central Valley sun. For most people, this is tragic, but for some, it's an opportunity.

Filmmaker Profiles:

Resources

• California is a Place