photo: Robin Pailler
Being one of our favourite humans, as well as one of our favourite photographers, we knew Jack Whitefield would have some interesting film choices to share with us.
Having delved more recently into motion picture himself, with music videos for Sam Fender and a documentary on Kingsley Ifill, it’s clear Jack has a keen eye for the unusual and overlooked. It’s no wonder his list consists of films marred in avant garde controversy.
1) Flaming Creatures, Jack Smith, 1963
It’s a great film by a guy called Jack Smith. It premiered in New York in 1963. The police where called and it was banned in 22 states and 4 countries… apparently it was inspired by the excessive glamour of Hollywood,, I alway loved it because its low tech almost DIY, no real fixed plot, really raw and free thinking.
Watch the full film here.
2) Walden (aka Diaries, Notes and Sketches), Jonas Mekas, 1969
Probably a good starting point as its easy to watch online, an early inspiration, still is, always refreshing and interesting, I like the idea of just being out in the world making films, documenting life, I watch his films a lot.
3) Out of the Blue, Dennis Hopper, 1960
A favourite. Ex-covict Father. Junkie Mum. Cebe, the daughter, discovers the punk scene and is obsessed with Elvis. Linda Manz is great in it.
4) Pixote, Hector Babenco, 1981
The life of a boy in the streets of Sao Paulo, involved with crimes, prostitution, drug trafficking and muggings. A recommended watch.
Watch the full film here.
5) Go, Go, Second Time Virgin, Kōji Wakamatsu, 1969
It’s not really one of my favourite films but it’s interesting cinema. Apparently loosely based on the Tate-LaBianca murders by the Manson Family in the same year, Wakamatsu’s films where really low budget, usually concerned with sex and extreme violence mixed with political messages..
