Showing @ Cineworld, Edinburgh, Thu 20 & Sat 22 Jun

Sophie Huber / Switzerland / 2012 / 77 mins

Clocking in over 100 movie appearances, Harry Dean Stanton has starred alongside some of Hollywood’s most famous names including Jack Nicholson, Marlon Brandon and Paul Newman. Now in his 80s, Sophie Huber’s documentary takes a look back at the music loving actor and his more iconic roles.

Stanton is a mysterious and enigmatic character, often giving evasive, one-word answers to Huber’s probing questions, especially about his parents. This however works as part of his charm. He holds humility by the spade load, unsure of how to handle compliments and preoccupied with the insignificance of his actions in the scale of the world. In a time where much of celebrity’s schedules are emblazoned in glossy magazines, Stanton is a man of few words, now preferring cigarettes and country songs to the glamour of the high-profile lifestyle. Indeed the film is peppered with songs performed by the aged crooner, his voice still melodious despite his tobacco addiction and it’s clear that music is as equally important to him as the industry that made him famous. Huber interviews a number of Stanton’s past colleagues including David Lynch and Kris Kristofferson, all of whom attest to Stanton’s hard living attitude but proficiency when behind the camera. Huber’s intimate portrait is full of admiration for one of the last living legends of Hollywood’s golden era.

Showing as part of the Edinburgh International Film Festival 2013

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