Every Wednesday at noon, Ryan Schleicher, Evan Rytlewski, and Matt Wild take to the WMSE airwaves to discuss all things Milwaukee. This half-hour fun-fest is called The Disclaimer, so named because none of the oft-ridiculous views expressed on the show necessarily reflect the views of the hosts’ employers. Milwaukee music, Milwaukee art, Milwaukee events, and D.I.Y. lawn care tips are frequently discussed—and rarely agreed upon. The Disclaimer: Talk radio for the sane.
Back in 2012, a Milwaukee marketing firm called Flipeleven launched a Kickstarter campaign entitled “Love MKE. Blow Up A Car.” The campaign sought cash for a scene in a short film in which a car blew up real good—a scene that, according to Flipeleven, would put Milwaukee on the “creative map.” With the help of NEWaukee, plenty of local media coverage, and nearly 100 backers, the firm raised more than $10,000. The scene was shot a month later in an empty downtown lot. Three years later, the finished film is nowhere to be found.
So what gives? Could it be that cynically appealing to local pride in order to raise money for a shitty short film isn’t necessarily a recipe for success? Using a Milwaukee Magazine piece by Claire Hanan as their guide, Ryan, Evan, and Matt discuss the explosive topic, touching on the irritating and disingenuous civic-cheerleader vibe of the original campaign, as well as the fact that Matt—who contributed $10 to the dumb thing—will apparently get a refund. Next, the pros and cons of year-end best-of lists are discussed, with all parties agreeing that, hey, it’s kind of nice having the year’s standout albums or films all listed in one place. Go figure.
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