Movie spotlight
Monster in a Box
Monologuist Spalding Gray talks about the great difficulties he experienced while attempting to write his first novel, a nearly 2,000-page autobiographical tome concerning the death of his mother. Among his many asides, Gray discusses his problems in dealing with the Hollywood film industry, recounts the trips he took around the world in order to avoid dealing with his writer's block and describes his ambivalence about acting as stage manager for a Broadway production of "Our Town."
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary offers a fascinating look into the life and career of American author and performance artist, Quentin Crisp. It follows Crisp as he prepares to give a performance in London, interweaving his personal stories and reflections with his public persona. The film captures Crisp's unique wit and perspective on life, art, and society.
Critical Reception
Critically acclaimed for its intimate portrayal of Quentin Crisp, 'Monster in a Box' is praised for director Nick Broomfield's sensitive and engaging approach. Audiences appreciated the candid and often humorous insights into Crisp's life and philosophy, solidifying its status as a notable documentary about a unique cultural figure.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its insightful and often humorous portrayal of Quentin Crisp.
Celebrated for capturing Crisp's unique wit and reflections on life.
Appreciated for its intimate and engaging documentary style.
Google audience: Google user reviews are not readily available for this specific documentary, but its reception generally aligns with critical praise for its subject matter and filmmaking.
Fun Fact
The film is a sequel to Nick Broomfield's earlier documentary 'Portrait of a Hitman' (1989), which also featured Quentin Crisp.
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