"It's possible Bill Daniel is the most inspiring filmmaker of our day. With an impressive filmography that includes work on Craig Baldwin's Sonic Outlaws and Spectres Of The Spectrum and as Vanessa Renwick's long-time collaborator, Daniel has crafted a remarkable first feature with his twenty-years-in-the-making Who Is Bozo Texino?, a documentary about modern day hoboes, rail workers and a forgotten outsider subculture. Shot entirely aboard speeding freight trains, it's amazing Daniel didn't fall right out of the boxcar. Presented in dreamy 16mm black and white, Daniel's film mixes experimental and documentary film techniques to provide a captivating look at a little-known art form. Tracing the origins to boxcar graffiti from over 100 years ago, Daniel follows rail graffiti's evolution to modern day hobo gatherings, freight hopping trips and secret hobo jungles only known to tried and true hoboes. Along the way Daniel interviews numerous old timers who have spent years on the rails drawing their monikers, among them graffiti legends Colossus of Roads, The Rambler, Herby (RIP) and yes even the ever-illusive Bozo Texino. The interviews provide a fascinating glimpse into the harsh realities of tramp life while also providing a unique backdrop for the more ambient railroad-blues infused soundtrack. Trying to catch up with Daniel is almost as elusive as his film. Constantly on tour screening his documentary or traveling from arts center to film festival to artist residency, Daniel has in fact pioneered a different way in which to experience movies—one fiercely committed to independent DIY ideals and fostering a new sense of community. Who Is Bozo Texino? is a different kind of movie for those unfamiliar with truly independent cinema...and the kind you'll want to watch over and over again." [Joe Biel, Microcosm]
45 minutes of pure cinematic genius.
45 minutes of pure cinematic genius.
