10/12/06 Plaster Caster
Plaster Caster (2001), directed by Jessica Villineswatched solo; DVD rental (North American Video) @ home
Ever since I've heard about this film, and this particular lady, I have been thoroughly intrigued (and a bit impressed) with its significance. Perhaps its part of my fascinations with both films (documentaries in particular) and collections in general (ok hers is a bit peculiar, but I have baseball cards and matchbooks too). Perhaps its the shock of hearing the scope of work she has pursued and to what impact in rock 'n' roll lore it will forever have. Perhaps its just a voyeuristic novelty that needs to be fulfilled. However you see it, you must try to see this movie. In all your subculture/cult readings, nothing will prepare you for the personality that is Cynthia "Plaster Caster" quite like the real thing will. She is an eccentric and dedicated woman, both to her art and the art of rock 'n' roll that she loves...nay worships. Coming out of a respected reverence for many of the rock legends that now grace her mantle, Cynthia has become somewhat of a rock legend in her own right. Trying to knock down the stereotypes that come with being a so-called "groupie," she and her brand became known for how their adoration would get them backstage. It's a clever and intelligent balance of power that she possesses, what with the symbolism of the very phallic offerings that she conjures up, where she comes in being the intimidated fan, but leaves the empowered artist that is intimidating. Well, enough beating around the bush and coy innuendo...yes, the woman makes plaster castings of famous rockers' private parts. What sounds shocking at first, fascinating next, clinical in its process, then finally impressive in its stature...keeps you entertained throughout the film. Cynthia is a compelling figure, with a sorted past and an eccentric nature to say the least. Her list of models that she has worked with is overwhelming, including more famously Jimi Hendrix & Noel Redding, Jello Biafra, Eric Burdon, Wayne Kramer of the MC5, and members of the Buzzcocks and Ministry to name a few. Her craft has definitely become something of urban legend, but to see her perform her initial meetings & casting sessions is somewhat laughable and surreal. You just have to see it to believe it. The debate will always rage on, whether it is art of obscenity, but it does nonetheless what it was intended to do...stir up conversation and opinions. I guess art wins, that's what art does.
4 out of 5 stars
posted by Undead Film Critic @ 1:16 PM
2 Comments:
At 3:20 AM,
Anonymous said…
He is back, I was starting to get worried.
Jeff
ps, hey have you gotten around to Science of Sleep or Volver. Tell Jason no male nudity found.
At 1:00 PM,
Anonymous said…
10.17.06 Devil's Playground
Devil's Playground (2002), directed by Lucy Walker
-watched w/ Leslie; DVD rental (Netflix) @ home
-Now, onto a subject that is equally as engrossing, perplexing, and something that I was completely ignorant about until watching this film (and even after, I couldn't quite say that I understand it or even believe it is real after watching some of these kids). The subject that I speak of, and is highlighted in Walker's documentary, is the tradition of Rumspringa. If you haven't also heard of this, it's ok...it just means your not Amish. According to widespread belief, Rumspringa is the traditional rite of passage of young Amish teenagers at age 16 that allows them to test the boundaries of their faith, outside world culture they describe as "English," and human decency. Yes, any preconceived notions one may have had about the Amish culture before (i.e. no technological trappings of the modern world, basic dress code, etc.)...they will be shattered hereafter. This act of Rumspringa allows these teenagers, before finding their final way in the Amish church, to go out on their own for freedom of choice and actions that most parents would have a heart-attack over. The children portrayed in the film live on their own, have quit school in order to take jobs at factories & stores, partake in heavy partying with drink and drugs, experiment sexually, drive fast cars, play video games, spend money for material things...you know, all the same things that average teenage heathens do. What is shocking is that this way of life is not only not looked down upon, but rather encouraged by the adults of the church, as they all themselves have been through it. It's a finding of oneself, and hopefully a return to the strict church teachings of religion...but on one's own terms. It's a novel and bizarre approach, but it seems to work in most Amish circles. Those who do not come back to the church may be forever on their own however, as a practice of "shunning" can happen to the tight-knit Amish community, but most choose to return. I guess it's the old thinking of whatever your parents try to keep you from doing, you will do it worse than they ever imagined. This approach lays out all the endless possibilities (and consequences) in front of the youth, and waits for them to understand their actions. Alternative to the mainstream, its at least a curious thing to watch. Heck, if you don't believe, get off your buggy and check out a TV...even Oprah knows about it (http://www2.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/tows_2002/tows_past_20021121_c.jhtml)!
-3 out of 5 stars
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