stratagone

This film was NOT about sex, it was not about religion, it was not about deprogramming cult followers. it was about coming to terms with the fact that you DONT KNOW ANTHING. That nothing is certain and all that you have been taught is a lie. It is about the terror one feels when all their assumptions about how the world works come crashing down on them. Both characters, Ruth and PJ have this epiphany. We all have our flaws and these flaws affect the way we live our lives, sometimes leading us into self destructive behavior, sometimes, unintentionally cruel and selfish behavior, especially when we have the best intentions. The things these two do to one another reflect that dynamic and are the basis for the confusion in the comments this film is recieving on this message board. It begins with some conventional narrative as well as some narrative short cuts, while irritating to me, many filmgoers are used to and take for granted, leading many, I suspect, to think this a different film than it is. The last hour i found affecting, moving and disturbing. I was duly impressed.

Oscar Williams magnum opus is one of the most entertaining films I have ever seen. When one combines an Ed Woodian level of artistry and competence, deadly earnestness about the evils of drugs (not unlike Reefer Madness), blaxploitaion elements (Dolemite, The Black Six), Phillip Micheal Thomas and a script written by a doctor, an unintentionally surreal, absurdist masterpiece emerges. Believe me when I tell you, you will not believe how PERFECTLY awful this film is and you will enjoy every millisecond of it. From PMT's monologue (shot with a 1980's vhs camcorder), to the convoluted plot, to the Gap band, to the vhs newsreel footage to the pcp freak out scenes, you will find yourself obsessed, as I am. Do yourself a favor and find this gem. Enjoy