Beast Blog
06.01.03
Bum's Paradise and the Liberation Drive-In

Last night the film Bum's Paradise showed at the kickoff of the 2003 Liberation Drive-In.

It turns out that Bum's Paradise is a major work of documentary. It's clear that by having Rabbit, one of the 'residents' of the Albany landfill, involved in the shooting of the work allowed the piece to have an intimacy and understanding that wouldn't have otherwise come through.

Importantly, the film doesn't attempt to glamorize or 'other-ize' its subjects. You get to see them for being just the people they are, living in a situation that is both depressing in its squalor and uplifting in its freedom. The artwork created by the residents is often stunning -- the Fairy Castle being a notable stand-out, particularly as its creator is one of the least coherent people on the landfill.

The film will be screening on June 22 at The Parkway, and ought not be missed!

Photos from the screening