Turnabout is a glimpse into a unique world filled with creativity and passion. This rare gem, written and directed by Dan Bessie, author of Rare Birds, skillfully introduces us, by way of narration, song and interviews, to Dan's Uncle Harry Burnett, the internationally known puppeteer, and his partner, Forman Brown, composer, lyricist and writer. Thoroughly researched and thoughtfully edited, Dan takes us into the non-conventional theater and unconventional lives of these two life-long partners. We have the privilege of sharing the memories of these two men, both in their 90's, and of witnessing the success of their undertaking and of their relationship.
4 Reviews
Yes, see this film!
farron1 June 2004
This is a brilliantly, sweet film that offers a slice of history not easily accessible to most. Written and produced by the Yale Puppeteers' nephew, the viewer has a chance to witness, thanks to this film, the puppeteers passions, work and lives in the context of a time that just wasn't ready for them. A bit eccentric, certainly off beat and creative, the puppeteers and their story - as well as their place in history - is meticulously documented and tugs at the heartstrings. Politics, love, a despicable era in US history, theater, music, creativity and two unusual personalities shape this film in an wondrous way. I love it. It's one understated film that stays in your head for myriad reasons.
An engaging account of a fascinating troupe of artists.
gina-caruso1 June 2004
This engaging account of a truly fascinating troupe of artists is much more than I expected when I first saw it. The artists broke ground by doing what no one else was doing at the time(the 1930's - 1950's). They each had unique skills which eventually brought them star filled audiences in their Hollywood theatre. The puppet shows were complete musicals as were the cabaret-style performances on a second stage. The songs were all original compositions and often mirrored what was going on in the world, and Hollywood, at the time. After viewing the film I searched to find out as much as I could about the 3 men who formed the troupe and of the "real" performers who graced their stage. It was the most unique theatre and has no equal today.
fine documentary about the founders of an original and beloved theatre company.
stevestromberg2 June 2004
I originally saw this at the S.F. Gay/Lesbian Film Festival ten years ago and it's stuck with me. Writer, Director, and Producer Bessie and one of the puppeteer's - Forman Brown - were in attendance and warmly welcomed. Brown was also there for a reissue of his novel, "Better Angel", written under the name, Richard Meeker.
The film was charming, informative, and there are some wonderful songs penned by Brown, especially "Catalog Woman" sung by Elsa Lanchester. Quite poignant and lovely. It's much more than a "gay" movie. It's about artists who accepted who they were and lived their lives proudly and to the fullest. It's filled with fine details on their lives in the theatre, and has some great guest stars.
I highly recommend this fine documentary. Check out one of Bessie's other films, "Hard Traveling" based upon a novel by his father, Alvah Bessie.
Steve Stromberg
The film was charming, informative, and there are some wonderful songs penned by Brown, especially "Catalog Woman" sung by Elsa Lanchester. Quite poignant and lovely. It's much more than a "gay" movie. It's about artists who accepted who they were and lived their lives proudly and to the fullest. It's filled with fine details on their lives in the theatre, and has some great guest stars.
I highly recommend this fine documentary. Check out one of Bessie's other films, "Hard Traveling" based upon a novel by his father, Alvah Bessie.
Steve Stromberg
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