Watch Comic Book Confidential

Comic Book Confidential is a 1988 documentary film that explores the realm of comic books and their impact on popular culture. The film features interviews with some of the most renowned comic book artists of the time, including Lynda Barry, Charles Burns, Sue Coe, Robert Crumb, and Will Eisner, among others. The film is directed by Ron Mann and features a narration by actress, singer, and writer, Fran Lebowitz. The documentary examines the history of comic books, from their origins in the early 20th century to their peak in the 1950s and subsequent decline in the 1960s. It also discusses how comic books have evolved to become a critical art form and a major influence on popular culture.

Through interviews with comic book artists, historians, and experts, the film explores the social and political relevance of comic books. It delves into controversial topics such as censorship, the role of comic books in the Civil Rights Movement, and the depiction of women and minorities in comic books.

The film features a unique visual style, with animation, historical footage, and comic book illustrations interspersed throughout. The animation is used to depict historical events and to bring comic book art to life, while the historical footage adds context to the history of comic books.

The interviews with the artists are the heart of the film. Lynda Barry, Charles Burns, Sue Coe, and other artists discuss their creative process, how they became involved in comic book art, and the challenges they have faced throughout their careers. The artists also speak about the importance of comic books as a medium for self-expression and social commentary.

One of the film's standout interviews is with Robert Crumb, one of the most influential comic book artists of the 1960s and 1970s. Crumb discusses his controversial work, which often featured sexually explicit and racially charged content. He also talks about the impact of his work on the counterculture movement of the 1960s.

Another memorable interview is with Harvey Pekar, a writer and comic book artist best known for his autobiographical comic book series, American Splendor. Pekar discusses his love for comic books and how his work reflects the everyday experiences of working-class Americans.

Comic Book Confidential also features interviews with a number of comic book historians and experts, such as Stan Lee and Jerry Robinson. These experts provide a historical context for the evolution of comic books as an art form and discuss their significance in popular culture.

Overall, Comic Book Confidential is an engaging and informative documentary that celebrates the artistry and impact of comic books. Through its interviews with comic book artists, historians, and experts, the film provides an insightful look into the history and relevance of comic books. Its unique visual style, blending animation, historical footage, and comic book illustrations, adds an extra layer of richness to the film.

Comic Book Confidential is a 1989 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.