This Filthy World

This Filthy World (2006)

*** (out of 4)

This one-man show features John Waters on stage in Australia where he discusses his life, films and hopes for the future. Being Waters you know this isn't going to be your typical, uplifting conversation as he starts off talking about the three negative influences in his life and then moves onto filmmakers that he learned the most from and sure enough it's gimmick master William Castle. Waters talks about several sexual things including new positions, people from Baltimore and countless other subjects but I think the real interest for fans is going to be him discussing all of his movies in the order that he made them. This is where we get some incredibly funny stories and especially with some of his earlier films like MONDO TRASH and MULTIPLE MANIACS. The story about them in an unknown farmer's pig pen filming is priceless. The PINK FLAMINGO stuff is all familiar stories but they remain entertaining no matter how many times you see them. He then gets into details about coming out of the midnight movie stuff and hitting mainstream with HAIRSPRAY and CRY BABY. All in all this is a pretty funny show even with the few dry moments that are scattered throughout. No matter what you think of his films, Waters is a pretty unique filmmaker and he's always got some great stories to tell. This here will mainly appeal to his fans or those who aren't easily offended but it's worth sitting through.

John Waters is very funny and down to earth. You really get the impression he is a nice guy and very likeable. He would probably never admit it but I think he is also a very moral person as far as how he treats his fellow man.

This show has moments of greatness and a few moments where it seems he us trying too hard. Some editing would have made it even better. He does get a bit raunchy for my tastes but I think he feels that is expected of him.

I think Waters is more fun/silly than he is filthy.

Well, this is not what others call "a movie", but for me definitely the very best cinema experience of the year (Berlin Filmfestival)! 450 gags within 84 minutes, if you know his movies-- and still 250, if you're a newbie...for me a definite one to-take-onto-the-island!!!!

This stand-up-oneman-show (John Waters about life and his movies) was recorded for netflix, an American online videotheque (who released it exclusively to its customers first) and was released as a regular buy-DVD in the UK in November. It is worth every cent /penny and contains two very entertaining Q&A sessions, that are nearly as long as the feature itself!

Well, what can be said about what is just a stand-up gig...I'm not sure this is particularly suited to the big screen, but that's not to say it wasn't enjoyable to watch.

I have to be honest and say I didn't know much about John Waters at all before this, and had only vaguely heard of Hairspray. I'd seen Killer mom as a kid and remember it to be a good movie. So, on to 'This Filthy World'. It started slowly and I thought it was going to be pretty bad, my initial thoughts were he may be a good filmmaker, but he ain't no stand-up. But as it wore on, he warmed on me and found him to be a very interesting guy and I did laugh a few times. He discusses most of his films, how he made them and provides anecdotes surrounding them. John Waters was there himself after the film for a Q&A, and it was the biggest waste of an opportunity I've ever seen. The compere/interviewer asked questions like "so what do you think of the internet" and the audience asked equally as mundane questions. The best question was "what's been your favourite Christmas present ever"...so you can imagine what the rest were like.

Overall, I'd recommend this but wait until it's out on DVD.

Coincidentally, I saw this one-man show right after watching Trantasia. How appropriate. Getting to know John Waters and his mind was a worthwhile experience.

He talks about how he got started and gives brief discussions on all of his films, interspersed with some of the things that interest him. Believe me, you will find out about things that you never knew existed! It is not a comedy act, just a chance to see some of the things that make Waters tick. Of course, if you are not a Waters fan, it will bore you, but for those who appreciate his art, it was enchanting.

Check it out.