Producer
Equal parts punk and psychedelia, the Flaming Lips emerged from Oklahoma City as one of the most bracing bands of the late 1980s. The Fearless Freaks documents their rise from Butthole Surfers-imitating noisemakers to grand poobahs of orchestral pop masterpieces. Filmmaker Bradley Beesely had the good fortune of living in the same neighborhood as lead Lip Wayne Coyne, who quickly enlisted his buddy to document his band's many concerts and assorted exploits. The early footage is a riot, with tragic hair styles on proud display as the boys attempt to cover up their lack of natural talent with sheer volume. During one show, they even have a friend bring a motorcycle on stage, which is then miked for sound and revved throughout the performance, clearing the club with toxic levels of carbon monoxide. Great punk rock stuff. Interspersed among the live bits are interviews with the band's family and friends, revealing the often tragic circumstances of their childhoods and early career.
Director
14 short films by 14 different filmmakers, from the music of Stan Ridgway
Director
Follow the legendary Paul Westerberg as he promotes Stereo/Mono (Vagrant), records new material in his home studio, prepares for shows, and relaxes on the bus. This is as personal as the ever-elusive Westerberg has ever gotten outside of his writing: he offers insight on his personal life, musical career, and tells stories like only Westerberg is able to do.
