Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend (1976)
In this experimental, self-ethnographic documentary, Tom Joslin blends breathtaking, moving snapshots from the natural world, filmic cultural touchstones, and cutting (pseudo) cinéma vérité to dissect and reassemble his gay identity despite constant warnings to stay in the closet. Blackstar sees Joslin and partner Mark Massi fleshing out their enduring commitment and obvious love for one another amidst the insecurity that a self-conscious documentary lens instills. As interviews with Joslin’s mother, father, and brothers attempt to break down the legitimacy of Joslin and Massi’s romance, the pair use everything at their disposal, including inspiration from gay revolutionaries and painfully honest conversations, to hold up their “abnormality” as a point of pride rather than shame. – Shayna Warner
Cast
Keywords
coming out, experimental documentary
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend about?
- In this experimental, self-ethnographic documentary, Tom Joslin blends breathtaking, moving snapshots from the natural world, filmic cultural touchstones, and cutting (pseudo) cinéma vérité to dissect and reassemble his gay identity despite constant warnings to stay in the closet. Blackstar sees Joslin and partner Mark Massi fleshing out their enduring commitment and obvious love for one another amidst the insecurity that a self-conscious documentary lens instills. As interviews with Joslin’s mother, father, and brothers attempt to break down the legitimacy of Joslin and Massi’s romance, the pair use everything at their disposal, including inspiration from gay revolutionaries and painfully honest conversations, to hold up their “abnormality” as a point of pride rather than shame. – Shayna Warner
- Who directed Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend?
- Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend was directed by Tom Joslin.
- Who stars in Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend?
- Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend stars Tom Joslin, Mark Massi, Mary Joslin, Charles Joslin, Whitey Joslin, David Macaulay.
- How long is Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend?
- Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend has a runtime of 1h 25m (85 minutes).
- What genre is Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend?
- Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend is a Documentary film.
- Where was Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend produced?
- Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend was produced in United States of America.