Library Journal Review

Finally, the definitive video release of Zwigoff's classic 1995 chronicle of the life and work of American underground artist/cartoonist R. Crumb (b.1943). Crumb reigns as the modern gold standard for warts-and-all documentary biographies, an unflinching look at how the creative impulse can emanate from unfortunate circumstances-in Crumb's case, extreme familial dysfunction and an unhappy childhood. Much has been made of Crumb's often shocking, sometimes arguably sophomoric work and how his drawing enabled him to escape a miserable fate, but let this reissue remind us that artistic skills afford no guarantees, nor does life. Crumb also introduces us to Crumb's gifted, damaged brother, Charles, who committed suicide prior to the film's release. Picture and audio quality are fine if unspectacular; profanity and sexual themes make it suitable for mature audiences. Bonus features include two commentary tracks, deleted scenes, and stills. Essential for all AV collections. Also available is the long-awaited DVD release of Zwigoff's beloved 1985 debut, "Louie Bluie," about another singular artist, the late Howard Armstrong (1909-2003). Rescued from decaying film stock and out of print on videotape for years, "Louie Bluie" has returned from obscurity, but some have already grumbled that its brief running time should have made it an extra on the Crumb program. Regardless, an hour spent in the company of a force of nature like Armstrong won't feel like enough, as his enthusiasm and energy threaten to fly off the screen. His prowess as a storyteller, a country-blues musician, an accomplished visual artist (watch the reactions to his graphic history of pornography), and an all-around showman transcend the evident technical limitations of the low-budget production. The digital transfer makes the film look and sound as good as it ever has; the soundtrack alone would constitute a great audiobook or radio show. Suggested for mature viewers owing to some profanity and "blue" content. Highly recommended for all AV collections; essential for collections with a focus on music.-J. Osicki, Saint John Free P.L., NB (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.