Chop Suey
Release Date:
October 5, 2001
Limited release
Chop Suey is the third film documentary by photographer Bruce Weber. The film focuses primarily on Weber's main model, Peter Johnson, and the late singer Frances Faye; it also includes interviews with people surrounding his subjects and the celebrities that Weber photographed throughout the years. But it is as much about Weber's thoughts about and feelings for his photographic subjects as it is about the subjects themselves.
Weber shows not only his love for Johnson, but also how he often photographed Johnson in situations that Weber himself could never allow himself to participate in or even consider. As Weber describes why he took certain shots in certain ways, he also reveals his own inner emotions and torments. Thus a portrait emerges not only of the documentary's subjects, but its creator as well.
Chop Suey is scheduled for a limited release on October 5th, and judging from its subject matter, the appeal will likely be limited, too. One would expect fans of Weber's two previous documentaries and/or his photographic work will be the primary audience, although depending on word-of-mouth and critical reviews, it might also draw in those who are intrigued by the inner workings of the artist's mind. (Calvin Trager/BOP)
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