 MVD // Buy from Amazon.comIn just under an hour, "$lOO & a T-Shirt" brings zine culture to life! Using broken and borrowed equipment, Joe Biel illuminates the world of self-publishing. He gives us glimpses of the Portland Zine Symposium, takes us on a a zine-themed bicycle tour around Portland, and interviews local zinesters. The documentary answers a wide array of questions, including: what are zines, why do people make zines, where did zines come from, how do zine communities function, and what does the future hold for zines? This newly re-released 3rd Edition has remastered audio, new footage, 5O+ new inserts shots, and more bonus material! While I could probably count on one hand the number of actual 'zines I've seen/held/read in my lifetime, there's something very punk rock and admirable about the very concept of do-it-yourself publishing. Perhaps, as a self-styled low-budget filmmaker, the sensibility to do whatever you ccan with whatever you have to put out your own creative vision appeals to my inner artist, and as such, I feel a sense of camaraderie with these folks, most of whom look like they don't have two pennies to rub together, yet are able to publish their heart & soul into their 'zines. Somehow it's not surprising that the documentary focuses on Portland, as it just seems to make sense that there'd be a very active sub-culture revolving around 'zines in that city. The publishers themselves are an assorted lot, but every single one of them has insightful missives to share, and the passion with which each approach their 'zine journey is clearly evident. I really enjoyed this glimpse into this world, and actually found myself seeking out some online distributors after watching, so I could order myself some real-world examples of this unheralded, but very active, type of literature. Video This documentary is comprised of dozens of interview clips, all shot on video, in different locations, with varying levels of quality. However, it's a low-budget documentary on 'zines, so somehow it seems appropriate that the film itself also has that rough-hewn edge to it as well. Audio Dolby stereo mix delivers the interview clips in solid fashion - some clips are harder to hear and/or are a bit rougher than others, but the dialogue is always discernable, so no complaints. Extras Closing Thoughts Enlightening, entertaining glimpse into a fascinating sub-culture + minimal extras = definitely recommended for some off-the-beaten-path type viewing Labels: review |
