Shadows in the City (1991) User Reviews

uncompromising artistic vision opposed to commercial filmmaking

[andreas-91 · 6 April 2001]

Follow a mans creeping demise into the lower depths of hell. In crude b/w photography the film depicts the story of a former side show manager and Korean war-vet that doesn´t get along with his life anymore. In the tradition of the New York Underground filmmaking efforts of the 80ties this film involves a lot of artists from this background (Nick Zedd as a dead demagogue, Jack Smith as Death, Taylor Mead as a Drunkard from the Bowery,etc.). Documentary style, a cast of social misfits and a reminiscence of Herk Harveys CARNIVAL OF SOULS make this Film worth watching. Some imagery is not story-motivated and is for atmospheric purpose only which will give mainstream audiences a hard time. If you can stand a radical negative delve into the underbelly of the American dream then this Film provides a dark charm not seen in commercial filmproduction. Not to forget the cool soundtrack...