For the longest time I sent e-mails to the folks at Netflix asking why the classic documentary film "Salesman" was not available. It got to the point where I just went ahead and bought it myself because I had heard so much about it. Well, for those of you who like my doc recommendations, this one is a classic and can finally be added to your queue. The movie was made in the late 60's by my favorite documentarians, the Maysles Brothers (Grey Gardens, Gimme Shelter). It follows four door-to-door Bible salesmen - "The Gipper", "The Rabbit", "The Bull", and the movie's main focus, "The Badger" - as they set out to sell keepsake Catholic Bibles to reluctant customers. It is shot in true "direct cinema" fashion, with no interaction or prompting by the filmmakers. It is both funny and heartbreaking. It is a must-see for any documentary fan. Add it to your lists, bitches!
8/06/2008
Documentary Film Of The Day: Salesman...
For the longest time I sent e-mails to the folks at Netflix asking why the classic documentary film "Salesman" was not available. It got to the point where I just went ahead and bought it myself because I had heard so much about it. Well, for those of you who like my doc recommendations, this one is a classic and can finally be added to your queue. The movie was made in the late 60's by my favorite documentarians, the Maysles Brothers (Grey Gardens, Gimme Shelter). It follows four door-to-door Bible salesmen - "The Gipper", "The Rabbit", "The Bull", and the movie's main focus, "The Badger" - as they set out to sell keepsake Catholic Bibles to reluctant customers. It is shot in true "direct cinema" fashion, with no interaction or prompting by the filmmakers. It is both funny and heartbreaking. It is a must-see for any documentary fan. Add it to your lists, bitches!
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5 comments:
Cool. Added.
Have you seen "The Lives of Others"? We just watched it last night and really enjoyed it. I know it's not a Documentary... but you watch movies too, right?
OK Some Guy. Will you post your docu-suggested list? I'd love to see it. Or, you can email it to me at DrZibbs@gmail.com . And do not give that email out.
GKL: I started watching it, but got interrupted by something. I could tell from the little part I saw that it is something I will like. I see it's on cable now. I just need to catch it from the beginning. And yes, I do watch regular movies, too.
Dr. Z: Check out my handy dandy "documentary posts" link on the sidebar. For a complete list, check the "films" link as well. It's all there waiting for you!
I love this movie! I saw this years ago in a film class on documentaries.
Some guy, I forgot you had that sidebar. If you like Gimme Shelter, check out the Last Waltz. I didn't see it on your list. Also, Welcome to the Dollhouse is a great comedy.
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