There have been some incredible documentaries made over the years about how movies were made, such as Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse . However, the documentaries that stand the test of time are usually about groundbreaking works of art and legendary films. That's why American Movie was so interesting, because it focused on an unknown, yet very eccentric, indie filmmaker named Mark Borchardt and his quest to finish a short film called Coven . Now, 25 years after it originally came out, the release of American Movie 4K gives people a new reason to re-watch Borchardt's equally inspiring, hilarious, and sad journey.

"The hit of the 1999 Sundance Film Festival, American Movie is the hilarious and intense story of one man's obsession with making movies. Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, is a long way from Hollywood, but Mark Borchardt has a dream. Armed with driving ambition and nothing to lose, the fast-talking Borchardt enlists friends, local theater actors and reluctant family members to help him finish his no-budget horror film, Coven. The camera doesn't blink as he chronicles every emotional crisis and financial pitfall of his two-year odyssey. What emerges is a bizarre but surprisingly honest documentary portrait of a truly American character. Welcome to the 'real world,'" the synopsis reads.

Directed by Chris Smith, who has had a huge resurgence in recent years with "Sr.", Mr. McMahon and Tiger King, the film opens with Borchardt saying he was a failure and talking about his depression, which he tries to channel into his work. There is hope, however, and Borchardt's passion shines through at the end, showing his drive. "I can't fail. I won't fail. It's not in me. You don't get a second chance and blow it. You'd be a fool to do that." The passage of time makes the releases of American Movie 4K all the more interesting, as 25 years later we know that Borchardt's filmmaking aspirations went largely unfulfilled, but it's hard to classify it as a failure, as his dream lives on to inspire others through his efforts that are documented.

As with any good documentary, the subject matter is what makes the film successful. Borchardt is an incredible character, mispronouncing the name of his own short film and doing his utmost to get Coven made despite his debts. Borchardt is joined by Mike Schank, his incredibly charming and kindhearted friend, who interjects with some great, dry humor. Their valiant attempts to create art are accompanied by glimpses into personal issues, as both friends have struggled with alcoholism. It all comes together to create a genuine, unglamorized look at an attempt to make a dream come true. It’s one that leaves the viewer with the desire to create and contribute to the world, even if they ultimately fall short.