"The Yes Men Are Revolting" and evolving.
The latest film by the provocative political-performance duo, the Yes Men, made its debut in Tucson, Arizona on Sunday. Native Tucsonan Andy Bichlbaum showed up to introduce the film and answer questions afterwords. The only disappointment is that there weren't any re- burgers for us during the show. Unlike their other two films, this version of the Yes Men was more introspective and less triumphal. As anybody involved in political activism or organizing of any kind know that not every action comes off as planned, and a couple of the actions in the film came off, barely and poorly. There were also successes. The lesson is:
1) Never give up, try, try again, and get right back on that horse cause winners never quit and quitters never win. 2) Doing something is better than doing nothing. 3) Use Wigs. 4) Regular people can make a difference 5) Collaborate.
For a long time, the Yes Men brainstormed most of their own ideas as a duo and then at the end brought on assistants such as camera crew, make-up and props people. The learned that this was no long possible for them. Perhaps they will change their name to "The Yes People."
In this movie the Yes Men talk about their paying jobs, their relationships and family as well as activism. Because their lives were put into the context of how they could find time to create actions, the film doesn't fall into the trap of becoming a reality show about two activists.
Mr. Bichlbaum's answers to our questions were at times enlightening and at other times mundane. His humility was refreshing and he came of as a kind and shy gentleman. He credits Occupy Wall Street with creating a new type of movement and re-energizing them. I am loathe to say more about the film for I do not want to give away too much.
Rating: Pay full price.
The movie is funny, entertaining, educational and life affirming, if not life altering. Time for my re-burger.
Peace, Tex Shelters
