Marwencol

Well this feels real now. I started off this blog with the bang that was my A Star is Born project. Now I start the regular format-a review of a current release complemented by one of an older film of which it reminds me.

I want to eventually make a habit of reviewing new films opening weekend, as at least with the blockbusters it’s watching them then or letting them slip through the cracks for many people. Of course it’s different with art-house films that build word-of-mouth and get people to eventually seek them out, especially as they draw awards recognition.

Oftentimes movies intended to be that way don’t succeed though. The current film in question, Welcome to Marwen, has probably already been written off by many people, which makes me sad. I hope I can convince you to change your minds.

First things first though-you’ll hear my thoughts on the documentary based on the same person: Marwencol.

I felt really hip knowing all about the subject of Welcome to Marwen long before the vast majority of people had ever heard of him. I am a voter for Film Independent’s Spirit Awards and watched Marwencol very early in 2011 as part of the annual series of nominee screenings.

Social media can serve as a great time capsule, naturally, and I decided to dig up what I wrote at the time on Facebook:

“Just saw the incredible documentary Marwencol. Anyone who has a chance to watch it don’t miss it!”

A brief comment but hopefully I convinced someone to watch it then. In any case I’ll share more detailed thoughts now:

Marwencol is a beautifully whimsical film. For anyone who often feels childlike (note: childlike means innocent, as opposed to childish which means immature) it can provide a wonderful escape. The subject of the documentary suffered unspeakable trauma but that is only briefly alluded to because it’s not the point of the film. The point is his amazing way of coping with it.

After his brain damage left him unable to work Mark Hogancamp took to making what is essentially the world’s largest and most impressive diorama. He constructed an entire community out of toys and handmade buildings and the imagination he puts into the stories behind the characters blew me away. It not only allows him to something to focus on when he needs a break from the real world that harmed him, it demonstrates his incredible talent as an artist and storyteller.

Honestly I could probably spend a whole day exploring “Marwencol” (the movie is named after the miniature community itself) if I got to see it in person. As it is the entire 83 minute runtime of the film just flew by for me.

If I’m being brief it’s because the movie is basically showcasing a work of art the entire time and thus has to be seen to be appreciated. I stand by what I said in 2011 though and now I really hope I’ve convinced people to watch this!

Next up: the feature film treatment.

Final Verdict: Such a breathtaking joy!