Join us for our monthly film screening series featuring the best in internationally-renowned independent and arts-related movies- The Art of Film.
The Art of Film presents a forum for appreciating movies as an art form. With audience Q&A and talkback sessions with film directors and faculty from Florida Southern College following each screening, this unique Polk Museum series will entertain, engage, and educate audiences of all ages.
Burden of Dreams
Director: Les Blank
Burden of Dreams, Les Blank, 1982
Synopsis: German director Werner Herzog begins work on his 1982 epic "Fitzcarraldo" but soon runs into serious setbacks, from casting problems to his own stubborn refusal to use special effects. After having to reshoot much of the film because the lead actor was recast, his crew must then haul an old-fashioned steamboat over a mountain using manpower alone. With a resolve bordering on insanity, Herzog struggles to realize his vision, vowing to see the film completed -- even if it leads to his undoing.
Director Bio: Whatever Les Blank focused upon, he always delved deeply into the soul of it. In his films, Les gives us intimate portraits of American Bluesmen such as Lightnin’ Hopkins and Mance Lipscomb, he takes us to exuberant parties with Cajun music and food, we march along with Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, we dance with polka culture the Midwest, we listen to sweet fiddle music in Appalachia, and we learn about film making itself. Les Blank has captured on film, the people, regions, foods, musical styles, dances, costumes and wonderful spirits that make America the unique cultural patchwork quilt that it is.
Doors open at 6:00 pm
Introduction and Screening at 6:30 pm
The Art of Film is free to attend. Cash bar available.
Organized by:
William Allen, Associate Professor of Digital Media, Florida Southern College
Matthew Herbertz, Assistant Professor of Film, Florida Southern College