Watch Amargosa

Amargosa is a 2000 documentary film directed by Todd Robinson that explores the life and art of artist and dancer Marta Becket. It's a poignant and visually stunning portrayal of an artist who found inspiration and solace in the Mojave Desert. The film takes us on a journey into the Mojave Desert, to a small, remote town called Amargosa, where Marta Becket made her home. The film shows Becket's journey as a young dancer in New York City, facing the harsh realities of an artist's life in the 1940s, as she struggled to make a name for herself. She eventually found her way to Amargosa, where she discovered an abandoned theater, the Amargosa Opera House.

The abandoned theater became Becket’s canvas, and she spent years transforming it into a vibrant and colorful theater, with murals, paintings and sculptures. She began performing there, one woman shows, transforming into different characters and stories right in front of the audience. Becket's performances were a hit with tourists, and she earned a loyal following.

The film features interviews with various people who remember Becket and her performances. We hear from Ray Bradbury who visited the theater, and Tom Willett, who discovered Becket, as well as dancers and musicians who at one point performed with her. We also learn more about the local residents, who were not always welcoming of Becket's new addition to the town.

Director Todd Robinson captures the beauty of the Amargosa Desert, with breathtaking shots of the barren mountains and the vast horizon. Robinson's shots of the Amargosa Opera House, its murals and its costumes are a tribute to Becket's artistic vision.

The film moves through Becket's life and career in a seamless and at times emotional way, and it does justice to the impact she had on those who knew her. Paul Becker's score complements the film's visuals, creating a cinematic experience that is both beautiful and haunting.

As the film progresses, we see how Becket's legacy continues to live on through those who still remember her, and through those who still visit the Amargosa Opera House, even after her passing. We also see the obstacles she faced, both as an artist and a woman, particularly in the early stages of her career.

Overall, Amargosa is a moving and emotional portrayal of a woman who transformed a run-down theater into a labor of love, and the impact she had on a small town in the Mojave Desert. It's a testament to the power of art, and its ability to transform and inspire.

In conclusion, Amargosa is a visually stunning and moving tribute to Marta Becket, and her journey as an artist in the Amargosa Desert. It's a film that will leave viewers with a sense of awe, and appreciation for the power of art. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art and culture, and for those who appreciate documentary films that are both informative and emotionally impactful.

Amargosa is a 2000 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.