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Jandek on Corwood
by kmikeym
NYNewsday.com article about a documentary on the mysterious Jandek, a musician who works very hard to remain a mystery. So mysterious in fact that the documentary about him contains no footage of the subject. The director, Chad Freidrichs, and the producer, Paul Fehler, interviewed various "music experts" including K Records founder Calvin Johnson, which is how I happened upon this article.
The NYNewsday article says, "Jandek has granted only two known interviews. The first, a 1985 phone conversation with Spin magazine writer John Trubee, is replayed in the film: It's a series of hilariously awkward responses and minute-long silences. In 1999, a Texas-based journalist tracked down Jandek and actually took him out for a beer. Still, he wouldn't admit he was Jandek and refused to answer personal questions."
The article also mentions, "Jandek's music isn't for everyone: One critic called it an 'echo- drenched nightmare. ... Incredibly unlistenable.' Fans may number as few as 150, the filmmakers estimate."
The website is jandekoncorwood.com and the DVD sells for $19.95. While I am interested in the subject, the trailer isn't really selling me. It seems a little boring.
Comments
We totally showed this at the 2nd Jackpot Film Festival--the only thing I remember was how blurry it looked projected on the big screen. Still, interesting subject matter. Netflix?
Posted by: J_John at April 30, 2005 3:51 PM
i am a real jandek nerd so i thoroughly enjoyed this film, but its certainly not for everyone. i'd say netflix it and check it out.
Posted by: james squeaky at July 21, 2005 1:50 PM
Hey James, John and I watched this sort of recently, and we both liked it. I want to say we both REALLY liked it... is that true John?
Posted by: Mikey at July 21, 2005 1:52 PM
i knew you guys would!!
Posted by: james squeaky at August 1, 2005 4:14 PM
Don't forget to buy Sherman's March!
Posted by: J_John at November 30, 2004 1:23 AM