The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg-***1/2- A Must-See- Directed by: Jerry Aronson, Written by: Jerry Aronson.
Writer-director Aronson builds a heartwarming and interesting documentary of one of the essential artists of American history and one of the key founders of the Beat Generation, poet Allen Ginsberg.
Ginsberg's art is reviewed in the film, with the notable works of Ginsberg such as Howl coming first. Yet what really makes this portrait of the artist so captivating is the way it uncovers Ginsberg's beliefs, mannerisms, and sexuality in an affectionate way. Without a doubt, this is what the Ginsberg documentary should be like in order to honor the man.
Not only does the documentary present archive footage of Ginsberg,but it also presents interviews and commentary by his various friends and fellow writers. These range from his Beat friends such as William S. Burroughs, but also his admirers from the 1960's such as Ken Kesey and also weaves in an honorable portrait of Jack Kerouac along the way. A must-see for any of those interested in Ginsberg or either the Hippy or Beatnik movements.
Writer-director Aronson builds a heartwarming and interesting documentary of one of the essential artists of American history and one of the key founders of the Beat Generation, poet Allen Ginsberg.
Ginsberg's art is reviewed in the film, with the notable works of Ginsberg such as Howl coming first. Yet what really makes this portrait of the artist so captivating is the way it uncovers Ginsberg's beliefs, mannerisms, and sexuality in an affectionate way. Without a doubt, this is what the Ginsberg documentary should be like in order to honor the man.
Not only does the documentary present archive footage of Ginsberg,but it also presents interviews and commentary by his various friends and fellow writers. These range from his Beat friends such as William S. Burroughs, but also his admirers from the 1960's such as Ken Kesey and also weaves in an honorable portrait of Jack Kerouac along the way. A must-see for any of those interested in Ginsberg or either the Hippy or Beatnik movements.
