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dave80995
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Funny Kinda Guy (2005)
Okay Documentary about Fascinating Subject
To experience someone's story is such a privilege. That's what I kept thinking as I watched this rather intimate documentary about a transgender man and how his transition affects his singing voice. It's rather sad to watch him losing his ability to sing, although the original songs we do hear are nice and heartfelt. I also liked the interviews with the parents, both Simon's and his girlfriend's. It was fascinating to see what they made of everything that was happening.
While this documentary's subject matter is compelling, sometimes it's not clear what's happening. I was especially unsure what was going on when Simon and his girlfriend went to hospital at one point. Also, some of the material seems a bit like "padding," moments that might be better suited to a home video. But Simon is interesting enough--he's a "funny kind of guy" to spend time with--, and that makes this fascinating documentary easy to watch.
Queering the Pitch (2007)
Watchable but Unimpressive Documentary
I found this a bit boring, although I don't like rugby very much so maybe that's no surprise! There's not really enough material here for a full- length documentary, so maybe it would have been better if it had dwelt more on other gay rugby teams as well. Some of the commentary on how "beary" the competition was opens up a provocative avenue, but that is left to kind of fall to the side. This documentary is mostly content with observing rather than deep analysis.
Despite not reaching its potential, I appreciated that Queering the Pitch looks at a unique subject. If the words "gay rugby" peak your interest, then this is a good introduction to the topic.
Virgin Tales (2012)
Fine, If Slightly Drawn-Out, Look at Evangelical Christianity in America Through the Observation of One Family
Virgin Tales is a documentary about the Wilsons, an Evangelical family of nine living in Colorado Springs, and their commitment to purity (especially sexual purity) and conservatism. It follows them for an extended period of time, through Purity Balls, home studies, and conferences, with a particular emphasis on Jordyn Wilson, who is in her early 20s and waiting for her husband.
What I found refreshing about this documentary is that Mirham von Arx allows the viewer to make their own judgment on the Wilson family's beliefs and practices. Apart from one or two moments (mainly the text at the end) which suggest a critique of Evangelicals like the Wilsons, this is purely observational film-making. There are no interviews with intellectuals telling us that "these beliefs are dangerous because..." or odd camera angles and haunting music to suggest that these people are harmful or delusion. It does not resort to mocking or manipulation; as much as any film like this can, it shows significant moments in the family's life without comment.
This documentary is, however, very singularly focused, with only the Wilsons really getting any camera time. While in some ways this is a good thing, as it helps to get a fuller picture of the family, it may also become a little tedious for some. Although some viewers may find the occasional connection between the family's beliefs and politics interesting, for those who already know what Purity Balls and Manhood Ceremonies are and how Evangelical Christian influence American politics this doesn't offer too much new. It will, however, make you think and reflect on religion (particularly Christianity in America), family, sex roles, and politics without actually being told what to think on these issues, and that is something in and of itself.