September 14, 2008

why didn't anyone tell me?

Posted by dogpossum on September 14, 2008 12:15 PM in the category fillums and lindy hop and other dances

that Be Kind, Rewind is, essentially, an homage to Fats Waller?

I'm a big fan of Michel Gondry's films, and knew I'd like this one, but I've only just had a chance to chase it down on DVD. First, Mos Def + Jack Black = yes! But then, BKR is far more than just a dumb film about videos: it's a film about Fats Waller!
Also, it's a story about the way people tell each other stories. I really liked the emphasis on people enjoying telling each other stories - made up or not - to which everyone can contribute.
And, then, even more awesomely, the characters make a fan-fic film about Fats Waller's life. It's fully awesome.
My other favourite bit was the montage filmed in 'real time' - omg.

I recommend watching the extras on the DVD - they have a full version of the Fats film.

Also: the Fats film references real archival footage of Fats - little soundies he made. And that is absolutely fully sick, because of course, the BKR is all about a couple of blokes (and then more people) who 'remake' famous films from memory and on a tight budget - so the film is all about 'remaking' found footage.
It's all so close to my stuff on what swing dancers do with archival footage, it just about made me swoon.

Sigh.

...also, I'm sorry this post is only semi-coherent. It seems today is not a day for words. It is a day for action.

Posted by dogpossum on September 14, 2008 12:15 PM in the category fillums and lindy hop and other dances