Watch Vernon, Florida
- NR
- 1981
- 56 min
-
7.0 (3,525)
Vernon, Florida is a captivating documentary film directed by Errol Morris. Released in 1981, the movie explores the lives of the eccentric inhabitants of the small, sleepy town of Vernon, Florida. The opening scenes of the movie immerse the viewer in the laid-back atmosphere of the town. It's a place where people spend their days fishing, hunting, and simply enjoying the slow pace of life. However, as the film proceeds, it becomes apparent that the residents of Vernon are far from ordinary. Their conversations and musings range from the bizarre to the philosophical, and Morris captures it all in stunning detail.
One of the most unforgettable characters in the movie is Albert Bitterling, a local turkey hunter who talks at length about the peculiarities of the birds he chases. He shares stories of his hunting adventures, discussing the various techniques he employs to lure and capture the elusive creatures. Watching him speak, it becomes clear that hunting isn't just a pastime for Bitterling - it's a way of life.
Another memorable figure in the film is Roscoe Collins, a former preacher who now spends his days selling pecans on the side of the road. Collins is something of a philosopher, and his musings on life and death are both humorous and profound. He discusses everything from the mysteries of the human soul to the nature of God, drawing on his own experiences to illustrate his points.
As the movie progresses, Morris introduces us to a host of other quirky characters. There's George Harris, a self-proclaimed "outlaw" who discusses his criminal past with an air of nonchalance. There's also a man who collects turtle shells, a woman who makes art out of human hair, and a couple who believe that they have discovered a way to talk to the dead.
Despite the wackiness of some of the film's subjects, Morris treats them all with an air of respect and admiration. He allows them to speak for themselves, capturing their thoughts and beliefs in their own words. In doing so, he creates a fascinating portrait of a town that is often overlooked or dismissed as insignificant.
Throughout the movie, Morris employs a striking visual style that perfectly complements the subject matter. The camera lingers on the faces of the people he interviews, capturing every wrinkle and line. Some shots are slightly out of focus, giving the film a dreamlike quality. The soundtrack, too, is hauntingly beautiful, adding to the film's otherworldly atmosphere.
Overall, Vernon, Florida is a captivating and thought-provoking documentary that offers a glimpse into a world that is at once familiar and utterly strange. Morris's artful direction and keen eye for detail make this movie a must-see for anyone interested in the lives and beliefs of ordinary people.
Vernon, Florida is a 1981 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.