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Derailroaded (2005)
Rated: NC
Theatrical Release: 24-02-2006
Synopsis: In this shocking and sensitive 86-minute journey through the thunderstorms of the mind of paranoid-schizophrenic Larry "Wild Man" Fischer, we follow his discordant encounters in the music business. Institutionalized at 16 after attacking his mother with a knife, Fischer wandered the... In this shocking and sensitive 86-minute journey through the thunderstorms of the mind of paranoid-schizophrenic Larry "Wild Man" Fischer, we follow his discordant encounters in the music business. Institutionalized at 16 after attacking his mother with a knife, Fischer wandered the mean streets of L.A. singing his totally unique brand of songs for 10˘ to passersby. Discovered by Frank Zappa, with whom he cut his first record album, Fischer became an underground club and concert favorite, earning him the title of "godfather of outsider music." Over the course of 40 years, he appeared on national television ( Rowan & Martin's Laugh-in ) and the Top 50 music charts in England, was the subject of his own comic book, was the first artist to be recorded on Rhino Records, and sang a duet with the late Rosemary Clooney. Extensive archival footage from Fischer's early days, including his TV and club performances, trace his life from neglected child to tortured genius. We visit him at home, follow him on the streets, and speak with those who over the years witnessed – and survived – his erratic behavior: his family, his doctor, and industry professionals (including Frank and Gail Zappa, Weird Al Yankovic, Devo's Mark Mothersbaugh, Solomon Burke, Dr. Demento, and Billy Mumy). You will be moved, amazed, repelled, and ultimately come to know what it is like to be profoundly Derailroaded. [More]
Genre: Education/General Interest
Reviews
In spite of its sympathy, Derailroaded veers into reality-TV voyeurism.
As with all great documentaries, Derailroaded challenges its audience to do some heavy soul-searching.
You don't have to be crazy to sing like Larry 'Wild Man' Fischer -- subject of Josh Rubin's reverential documentary Derailroaded -- but it helps.
This in-depth documentary is a loving tribute, an entertaining yet tragic tale, of a true singer-songwriter.
A funhouse mirror of a movie that brilliantly reflects the warped, fractured chapters of Fischer’s unique life story. It’s also one of the best documentaries of recent years.
You don't have to be a fan of Larry 'Wild Man' Fischer's batty songs to appreciate Josh Rubin's compassionate portrait.
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by: MH and THE MOVIES 12/19/05


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