Judd Apatow fans are no doubt excitedly awaiting Pineapple Express, which opens tomorrow. What they might not know is that even though it is a Judd Apatow and a Seth Rogen film in many ways, it is also a David Gordon Green film, he’s the director. Which may lead you to the question - who is David Gordon Green?

Well to put it simply, David Gordon Green is a great independent film director. He knows how to capture the intricacies of everyday life, of love, of heartbreak, of disillusionment and even of fear in beautiful moving images. Specifically he’s directed 4 films already, his first one, George Washington, not only won the critics and festival circuit’s heart, it was made for only 42,000 dollars.

George Washington is the story of a group of kids in the rural south and the decisions they make and the consequences they face one summer. It’s set in a world of decay where innocence is a hard thing to keep a hold of. His cast is filled with first time actors, real kids from the area and they shine on screen, bringing an honesty to the film that I doubt any trained actor could. And in the Terrence Malick tradition, there is a haunting female narrator.

It’s also a story about taking action in some ways. The main character, named George, decides he wants to be a super hero and actually ends up saving a kid at one point.

So, do yourself a favor, see Pineapple Express tomorrow (I am!) and afterwards, be sure to takepart and see George Washington - you’ll be glad you did - and also, takepart to help some kids down south - those affected by Hurricane Katrina.

I’ll be back with another look at one of my favorite DGG films, but for now, the trailer for George Washington, along with the opening scene are below and definitely worth watching:

Read on:

• David Gordon Green and Danny McBride Reunite for ‘Your Highness’
• An artful stoner flick
• Interview: Pineapple Express Director David Gordon Green

*photo by atticablues