Set in the Missouri Ozarks, the movie Winter’s Bone is a must see. But it raises a question for folks like me: “Roots music and other mythologizing of mountain life—how far are they from the reality?” And more broadly, is it possible to know a way of life without living it? Is it possible and honest to romanticize a way of life if you have lived it?
I reserve the right to say more about Winter’s Bone, but for now: see it. It will win awards, and you don’t want to be standing in the cloak room with your nose against the wall while everyone else is cool and knows what’s going on.
In the meantime, meet or get re-acquainted with Mac Wiseman, maybe the richest, most fluid voice in Bluegrass. If you like it at all, I hope you'll wander around at YouTube, which has some of his other best stuff.
YouTube - Mac Wiseman-Did She Mention My Name (70's)
YouTube - Mac Wiseman Jimmie Brown The Newsboy
YouTube - Mac Wiseman - Wabash Cannonball & Old Folks at Home
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I much prefer someone who romanticizes the past to one who complains about it.
ReplyDeleteAH, well-said, and that's definitely me. I just try to avoid being a sap about the past, in spite of appearances. Shall I let you finish Gatsby's major line? "Can't repeat the past? . . . "
ReplyDeleteOf course, look how that ended.
Thanks for the re-intro to Mac Wiseman. You bring a whole new perspective from your likes and knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI never heard of this movie; I looked to see where it is playing locally - and it isn't. Palm Springs is the nearest theater... sigh!
Love AH's comment! Yes, remembering the past in softer, gentler way is much much better!
Is this film in wide release? Funny...I live in western Missouri and haven't heard about it. If it comes around, I'll check it out.
ReplyDeleteJeff, I hadn't even thought of your Mizzou connection. It was at an "art theater" where I saw it. I'm lucky to have a couple of them nearby, with 3 screens apiece. But the movie might be getting sufficiently rave reviews to show up at more mainstream theaters. Since it's largely about setting, the big screen is a big help. But there's also plenty of story. Hope you and Brenda get a chance.
ReplyDeleteBrenda, I've heard that Scottsdale shows some of the indie films. Don't know the theater names, however.
And Brenda, you knew of Mac Wiseman. I've heard and liked him on bluegrass anthology albums, but only in googling him did I realize he's been pretty big for a long time. I 'spect there goes more dollars on CDs. Looks like he plays a lot in key of A, so maybe I can follow along.
I'm going to take my mother. Maiden name; Ramona Jaunita Fulp....and she's from the Missouri Ozarks going a few generations back. In fact she has a chapter named after and about her in fellow class mate Wayne Holmes "Rocky Comfort"
ReplyDeleteI recall seeing a series ala "Ken Burns" style where Holmes made frequent appearances as a historian of the region. Ramona refers to him still as goat boy
PA, fantastic. I can't wait to hear your report. You'll want to see today's post, an actual review of the movie. Hope you'll feel free to expand or disagree after your viewing.
ReplyDeleteYes, Banjomyn, lots of good indie movies play at that theater. But not this one yet... Another one I want to catch is Wild Grass. Again, no local luck.
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