- 1991movierewind
Episode #116: Poison
Listen to Episode 116 of the Podcast here while you enjoy the show notes.
SUMMARY - Poison consists of three separate intercut segments. In one, a prisoner reconnects with another inmate from their past at a juvenile detention center. In another, a film noir horror picture about a scientist who unwillingly spreads a deadly disease. The third is a fake documentary about a young boy who murders his abusive father and literally flies away.
Screenplay by Todd Haynes; Directed by Todd Haynes; and premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 11, 1991.
FILM DISCUSSION
This movie is a tough one to talk about. There are 3 different, intercut stories at play.
Each has its own unique visual style
And all are incredibly visually appealing in different ways
They cut at various times and it was tough for us to figure out why some of those transitions happened.
Throughout the episode, we attempted to relate these stories to the homosexual experience as that does seem to be the main purpose.
At times we may have failed, but there were some interesting discussion points and talking it out made us appreciate the movie more.
We'd rather not say too much here and instead again ask you to listen to the episode to get a fuller understanding of what the picture has to offer.
Awards Talk: At the Sundance Film Festival, it won the Grand Jury Prize (Dramatic). Later at the Spirit Awards, it was nominated for Best Director and Best First Feature.
TRUE CRIME & POP CULTURE
This week we don't have any true crime so we're talking about TV
If the website is to be believed, the NAACP Image Awards might have aired (as an apparent repeat?) We're not sure, but we're talking about the winners anyway.
RANKINGS & RATINGS
Nikki 1-5 star scale - 4 out of 5
Jon 0-4 star scale - 3 1/2 out of 4
Would you watch it again? - The filmmaking techniques and the varied styles among the three disparate stories make it worth it on its own. However, we also believe that there is quite a bit of depth and additional layers to uncover from another watch. Director's commentary would certainly make it enjoyable as well.
If you want to watch Poison, as of this recording in June 2023, it’s available on Prime, Kanopy, Fandor, Digital Rental, VHS, DVD. Check your local listings.
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