John Cassavetes was a pioneer in the independent film world. His films relied on the improvisation of the cast and have a realistic style that was rarely seen in American films. His 1959 debut film Shadows was shot in 16mm film on the streets of New York. The film exists in two versions (78 & 87 minutes) and scholars and critics have argued for years over which is the finer cut. Regardless, Shadows is an undeniably influential independent film and a milestone in American independent cinema.
