Watch Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream

In 2005, Tom Corboy directed a documentary film titled Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream. The movie explores the phenomenon of underground films that became popular through midnight screenings in the 1970s. The documentary tells the story of how bizarre and unconventional movies found a devoted audience that turned them into cult classics. Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream features interviews with filmmakers and fans who were directly involved in the creation and promotion of these movies. It stars influential filmmakers such as John Waters, Alejandro Jodorowsky, and George A. Romero.

The documentary begins with an introduction to the midnight movie phenomenon. The concept of midnight movies was born in the 1950s when a group of adventurous theater owners decided to experiment with movies that were not accepted by mainstream audiences. These films were often considered controversial and subversive, exploring themes such as sexuality, violence, and drug use.

Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream traces the history of midnight movies from their origins in the counterculture of the 1960s to their heyday in the 1970s. It covers the rise of films like El Topo, Night of the Living Dead, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Pink Flamingo. The documentary shows how these movies resonated with audiences who were seeking alternative forms of entertainment that were not being offered in mainstream cinema.

The movie highlights the influence of John Waters and his films. John Waters emerged as a leading figure in the midnight movie movement with his films Pink Flamingo and Female Trouble that celebrated trashy, tasteless, and transgressive topics. Waters himself provides insightful commentary on the appeal of the midnight movies and their impact on mainstream culture.

Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream also explores the role of midnight movies in the counterculture movements of the era. The documentary shows how films like El Topo and The Rocky Horror Picture Show had a tremendous impact on the alternative communities and challenged the dominant norms of society. These movies became a new form of expression for those who were marginalized and excluded by mainstream society.

The movie also features interviews with Ben Barenholtz, the legendary theatrical exhibitor, and distributor. Just a few years before launching his own company, Barenholtz worked as the general manager of NYC’s premier art-house, the Elgin Theater. There, he created midnight movie culture, leading him to release movies like Pink Flamingos, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Dreamland with John Waters in the 70’s.

Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream is a film that celebrates the spirit of experimentation, creativity, and rebellion that defined the midnight movie experience. It captures the excitement and energy of a time when cinema was breaking free from its traditional restraints and exploring new and uncharted territories. The movie is a fascinating look at a subculture that changed the way we look at movies and paved the way for future generations of filmmakers.

In conclusion, Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream is an engaging and informative documentary that sheds light on an important aspect of cinema history. It features interviews with filmmakers, critics, and fans who passionately discuss the meaning and impact of the midnight movie phenomenon. The movie delivers a compelling narrative that celebrates the resilience and innovation of independent cinema.

Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.