Watch Gummo

Gummo is a 1997 independent film directed by Harmony Korine, best known for his work on the screenplay for the controversial 1995 film, Kids. The film takes place in the aftermath of a devastating tornado that ravaged the small, impoverished town of Xenia, Ohio. Taking a slow and contemplative approach, the movie explores the lives of a group of aimless, disaffected youths who struggle to find meaning in a world that seems to have abandoned them.

The film primarily follows two young boys: Solomon (Jacob Reynolds), who lives with his mentally challenged brother Tummler (Nick Sutton), as they traverse the desolate, often surreal landscape of the town. While Solomon and Tummler are the focal point of the story, the film offers glimpses into the lives of the town's other residents, each of them struggling to cope with the loss and trauma wrought by the tornado.

Gummo is not an easy film to watch. It is often disturbing, graphic, and emotionally taxing. Korine's decision to film the movie in a documentary style, using non-professional actors and locations, only adds to the feeling of raw, unpolished authenticity. Scenes of graphic violence and animal cruelty are juxtaposed with moments of haunting beauty, creating a film that is as challenging as it is hauntingly beautiful.

One of the most notable aspects of Gummo is its unique aesthetic. The film is shot in a grainy, desaturated style that gives it the appearance of a found footage or home video. This, coupled with the film's use of surreal imagery and its often disjointed narrative structure, creates a dreamlike quality that makes Gummo feel more like an exploration of a remote, almost alien world than a traditional movie.

At its core, Gummo is a film about alienation and despair. Its characters are all trapped in a cycle of poverty, violence, and isolation that seems insurmountable. However, the film is not without moments of hope and redemption. While the inhabitants of Xenia may be deeply flawed, they are also human, and even amid the wreckage of their lives, they manage to find connection and meaning.

The performances in Gummo are exceptional, particularly given that most of the cast had no previous acting experience. Jacob Reynolds and Nick Sutton, in particular, deliver raw and powerful performances as the film's central characters. The film's use of non-professional actors only serves to enhance its realistic, documentary-style aesthetic.

Gummo is a film that is not for the faint of heart. It is challenging, provocative, and at times deeply unsettling. Those who are able to embrace its raw, unflinching exploration of the human condition, however, may find themselves drawn in by its unique beauty and profound sense of melancholy. Despite its often controversial content, Gummo remains a powerful and affecting film that is not easily forgotten.

In conclusion, Gummo is a cinematic masterpiece that delves into the dark corners of the human condition. It's a must-watch for anyone that wants to explore raw and authentic storytelling that provokes thought and introspection.