HIFF Review: Beautiful Losers
Image courtesy Sidetrack Films
“Beautiful Losers” (2008)
United States, 90 minutes
Reviewer’s rating: Three stars
Review by Jason Genegabus
jason@starbulletin.com
Skaters. Punks. Goths. Freaks.
In the late 80’s and early 90’s, these labels were the fuel that stoked a creative flame for a group of young artists in New York City.
Hailing from different backgrounds and different parts of the country, the stars of “Beautiful Losers” found common ground within Alleged Gallery. Uninterested in the city’s established arts scene, Aaron Rose opened the space in hopes of facilitating creativity while providing his friends with a cool place to party.
At first, there is some difficulty understanding the common bond between Rose (who also co-directs the film with Joshua Leonard) and other artists being interviewed. An accordion solo by professional skateboarder and accompished photographer Ed Templeton is a perplexing way to begin telling their stories, although viewers quickly figure out that none of them are exactly normal.
Not that it’s a bad thing to be different.
After artist, writer and filmmaker Harmony Korine shares a story about a loan shark who was murdered in a public park, he tells two young kids about the park’s history. They wisely laugh and run away, leaving him to ponder the difference passing years can have on both a location and a person.
Graffiti artist Barry McGee, graphic designer Geoff McFetridge and artist/filmmaker Mike Mills all share similar stories of angst and rejection. McFetridge and Mills were able to evolve and elevate their art from DIY origins to achieve commercial success in the mainstream, while McGee admits he continues to struggle with the idea of producing his art for the masses.
“Beautiful Losers” picks up steam when the artists begin to transition into higher-profile roles within the artistic community. As the 90’s come to a close, Alleged Gallery becomes an international phenomenon, which gives the artists incredible exposure – and provides a vital source of income.
But just as viewers begin to truly understand how these outsiders have embraced their unique views of the world around them, and in effect, become the mainstream insiders they used to rebel against, the film draws to a close with tragdy and reflection.
At just 90 minutes in length, the story of these incredible artists’ impact on modern culture is almost lost in the stories that explain why they are who they are.
View the trailer for “Beautiful Losers” and additional bonus footage online:
http://www.vimeo.com/user598698
