Guaranteed to be one of the strangest documentaries you've ever seen. Seven siblings are imprisoned by their paranoid father, in an apartment, in the middle of New York City, for 16-17 years - and they watch movies (and reenact favorite scenes) as a window to the outside world. Cinema becomes their savior; their monolith to a concept they cannot fully grasp - until one of them leaves the apartment in an act of insurrection. Other than the above few words, I couldn't get much of a message out of this story. But in itself, it's a very disconcerting, bizarre snapshot.
PS: Won the award for Best Documentary at this year's Sundance Film Festival.
Mo says:
An excellent film, I was quite shocked by the father's paranoia and his need to control his family but was gladdened by his sons ingenuity in dealing with the situation. Their use of paper and card for props and costumes was inspirational!
ReplyDeleteI have no doubt that the eldest brother will go on to become a great director with a unique vision and perhaps the others will go on to become successful members of society, although, will any of them ever escape from the mental trauma? I hope so...
Like always, I saw a good documentary, and I was waiting for your feedback.
DeleteI'd love to read one day what Tarantino's reaction to this film was, considering how both his "Reservoir Dogs" and "Pulp Fiction" has affected these kids - and somewhat kept them 'alive'.
I watched another documentary on youtube about them and it looks like they are all doing great. I'd love to see Tarantino's reaction too.
ReplyDeleteA quick google search found this soundbite: “Quentin Tarantino said, ‘They’re very funny. Tell the boys wonderful work,’”