An Acquired Taste

Since I'm usually ready to be ironically amused when I toss a newfound 16mm film on my EIKI, this reel caught me by surprise. On the occasion of his 40th birthday, the director reflects on his highschool and college and professional performances, and on the wider American culture of competition and success. Without being whiny or maudlin, he delivers a bittersweet nostalgia piece that is also a lament for the blind, ceaseless drive that propels us through life. Coaches exhorting their young charges, cheerleaders trying out for the squad and squealing when the results are posted, commuters on trains and planes, and advertizing everywhere all seem to be singing the same song, or chanting it. Evocative documentary footage of late-70's teen culture abound, and if like me you were Class of '81, this will take you right back, whether you want to go or not.