Penelope Spheeris

Penelope Spheeris

Рождение : 1945-12-02, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

История

Penelope Spheeris (born December 2, 1945) is an American director, producer and screenwriter. She is best known as a documentary film director whose works include the trilogy titled The Decline of Western Civilization.  She has also directed feature films, including Wayne's World, her highest grossing film.

Профиль

Penelope Spheeris

Фильмы

Brainwashed: Sex-Camera-Power
Self
Investigates the politics of cinematic shot design, and how this meta-level of filmmaking intersects with the twin epidemics of sexual abuse/assault and employment discrimination against women, with over 80 movie clips from 1896 - 2020.
Time Warp Vol. 2: Horror and Sci-Fi
Self
The greatest cult horror and science fiction films of all-time are studied in vivid detail in the second volume of Time Warp. Includes groundbreaking classics like "Night of the Living Dead," and "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," and sci-fi gems such as "Blade Runner," and "A Clockwork Orange."
Time Warp Vol. 1: Midnight Madness
Self
From "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" to "The Big Lebowski" and everything in between, this fascinating deep-dive documentary begins its celebration of the greatest cult movies of all-time discussing the birth of the midnight movie.
At the Video Store
Self
Equal parts personal essay, intense rumination, and playful satire, this movie laments the death of the American Video Store while it searches for the missing human element in today's digital landscape.
Half the Picture
Herself
At a pivotal moment for gender equality in Hollywood, successful women directors tell the stories of their art, lives and careers. Having endured a long history of systemic discrimination, women filmmakers may be getting the first glimpse of a future that values their voices equally.
The Real St. Nick
Director
A pretty psychiatrist is saved from an accident by a man who, after hitting his head on a rock, believes he is Santa Claus. As she nurses him back to health at her institute, he brings the spirit of Christmas to the hospital.
Мир Кормана
Self - Filmmaker
Полнометражный документальный фильм о жизни, карьере и заметном влиянии Роджера Кормана на современное кино…
Пять
Director
Антология из пяти коротких фильмов, исследующих влияние рака молочной железы на жизнь людей.
Balls to the Wall
Director
Ben's fiancée has her heart set on an expensive dream wedding, but her father, Jack, has secretly gambled away all his money. When Ben discovers he has a talent for exotic dancing, Jack pushes him to moonlight as a stripper to finance the wedding.
For the Love of Movies: The Story of American Film Criticism
Herself
The story of American film criticism.
Малыш и я
Herself
Aaron Roman is a teenager with cerebral palsy who dreams of starring in a big-time action movie. When his father grants Aaron his wish for his eighteenth birthday, he experiences the reality a bit hard to manage.
Малыш и я
Producer
Aaron Roman is a teenager with cerebral palsy who dreams of starring in a big-time action movie. When his father grants Aaron his wish for his eighteenth birthday, he experiences the reality a bit hard to manage.
Малыш и я
Director
Aaron Roman is a teenager with cerebral palsy who dreams of starring in a big-time action movie. When his father grants Aaron his wish for his eighteenth birthday, he experiences the reality a bit hard to manage.
Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession
Self
A documentary on the Z Channel, one of the first pay cable stations in the US, and its programming chief, Jerry Harvey. Debuting in 1974, the LA-based channel's eclectic slate of movies became a prime example of the untapped power of cable television.
Афера века
Director
Когда 26-летний Брайан Крувер парковал свою подержанную машину между шикарными «Порше» и «БМВ» в гараже корпорации «Энрон» – одной из ведущих финансовых компаний Америки, он твердо знал, что скоро станет обладателем не менее шикарного автомобиля. Брайан быстро понял, что от него требуется и как можно разбогатеть: главное – как следует «обработать» клиента. Освоив все необходимые «трюки», Брайан становится частью команды и стремительно делает карьеру. Он покупает большую машину, телевизор с огромным экраном и все остальное, что кажется ему необходимым атрибутом счастья. И никто из сотрудников «Энрон» даже не подозревает, что они – лишь пешки в чужой игре, и что всего за один день их «Американская мечта» развеется как дым…
We Sold Our Souls for Rock 'n Roll
Director
Penelope Spheeris presents an amazing chronicle of the travelling musical carnival known as OZZfest, the most successful summer concert tour for the last five years. Complete access to incredible material sends this documentary film into the realm of pure entertainment. Unforgettable moments from zealous religious protesters, outrageous fans and the guys (and girls) backstage provide an insightful view into the soul of white, middle-class America. A stunning and sometimes disturbing glimpse of a cultural movement, this film is sure to be a reference for historians for decades to come. This comment on Middle America skates the line between your worst nightmare and the best time you’ve ever had. Features interviews with, and performances by BLACK SABBATH, SYSTEM OF A DOWN, SLIPKNOT, PRIMUS, ROB ZOMBIE, GODSMACK and more.
Hollywierd
Director
Documents the making of BLOOD DOLLS, interviewing members of the cast and crew.
No Use Walkin' When You Can Stroll
Director
One-time carny, bartender, and married 10 times, director Penelope Spheeris’ mother was an uncommon woman. In this sweet, funny, and moving video portrait, Spheeris gives us a vivid glimpse into the richness of her mother’s life and character. 35mm, color, 11 min. Director: Penelope Spheeris. 1998.
Без чувств
Director
Бедный студент Дэррил Уизерспун трудится на четырех работах, но денег на оплату счетов всё равно не хватает. В надежде добыть еще немного средств Дэррил соглашается принять участие в сомнительном медицинском эксперименте. Молодой человек становится чуть ли не супергероем, но неожиданно о себе дают знать странные побочные эффекты…
The Decline of Western Civilization Part III
Director
The Decline of Western Civilization III is a 1998 documentary film directed by Penelope Spheeris that chronicles the 'gutter punk' lifestyle of homeless teens in Los Angeles.
Паршивая овца
Director
Эл Доннели обладает всеми качествами, необходимыми для того, чтобы сделать карьеру в большой политике. Он прекрасный оратор, легко зажигающий аудиторию. Эл хорош собой и быстро завоевывает расположение окружающих. Вполне вероятно, что в борьбе за губернаторское кресло Элу Доннели не будет равных. Но что гложет этого блестящего кандидата, что подрывает его уверенность в себе? Есть в безупречной репутации Эла Доннели одно слабое звено - это его чокнутый брат Майкл. Эл Доннели находит надежный способ обезвредить паршивую овцу. Он приставляет к невменяемому Майклу человека из своей команды, Стива Доддса, и приказывает ему не сводить глаз с трудного брата. Теперь, когда ахиллесова пята надежно скрыта, Эл Доннели вновь обретает уверенность в себе. Его оппонентам не к чему придраться; но вот Стиву Доддсу не повезло...
Маленькие негодяи
Screenplay
Большинство героев этой картины — дети. Мальчики организовали свой клуб настоящих мужчин-женоненавистников. Поэтому любой, кто встречается с девочкой, в их глазах — преступник, предатель и негодяй. Они очень сурово обошлись с одним из членов своего клуба только потому, что тот ходил к девочке на свидания. Девочки, в свою очередь, ничего хорошего в мальчиках тоже найти не могут и предают их суровому осуждению.
Маленькие негодяи
Director
Большинство героев этой картины — дети. Мальчики организовали свой клуб настоящих мужчин-женоненавистников. Поэтому любой, кто встречается с девочкой, в их глазах — преступник, предатель и негодяй. Они очень сурово обошлись с одним из членов своего клуба только потому, что тот ходил к девочке на свидания. Девочки, в свою очередь, ничего хорошего в мальчиках тоже найти не могут и предают их суровому осуждению.
Деревенщина из Беверли-Хиллз
Producer
Комедия о семейке из самого сердца американской глубинки. Глава семьи случайно обнаружил в болоте огромные запасы нефти. Он продал землю за миллиард долларов и переехал вместе с семьёй в «город богачей» — Беверли Хиллз. Деревенщины из Аризоны нагло смешались с самыми что ни на есть сливками американского общества…
Деревенщина из Беверли-Хиллз
Director
Комедия о семейке из самого сердца американской глубинки. Глава семьи случайно обнаружил в болоте огромные запасы нефти. Он продал землю за миллиард долларов и переехал вместе с семьёй в «город богачей» — Беверли Хиллз. Деревенщины из Аризоны нагло смешались с самыми что ни на есть сливками американского общества…
Мир Уэйна
Director
Гарф и Уэйн — молодые отвязные ребята, авторы и ведущие молодежной телепрограммы «Мир Уэйна». Преуспевающий бизнесмен, случайно увидев эту полулюбительскую передачу местного кабельного ТВ, понял, что на этом можно сделать деньги. Он заключает с ними грабительский контракт, но ребята не могут идти на поводу у чистой коммерции. Дело оборачивается конфликтом, да тут еще бизнесмен положил глаз на красивую рок-певицу Кассандру, к которой Уэйн очень неравнодушен. Ребята берут инициативу в свои руки.
Rap's Most Wanted
Director
Documentery from 1991 where The 2 Live Crew, Chuck D (Public Enemy), Too Short, Ice-T, Geto Boys, H.W.A. drop real talk on different topics.
Visitors from the Unknown
Director
A look at the Travis Walton abduction
Lifers Group ‎– World Tour: Rahway Prison, That's It
Director
A short documentary accompanying the first EP released by Lifers Group, a rap crew that grew out of the Lifers Group Juvenile Awareness Program — a youth crime prevention program founded in East Jersey State Prison in 1976 and made famous by the documentary Scared Straight! Released in 1991 and directed by Penelope Spheeris, the 29-minute documentary was nominated a 1992 Grammy Award for Best Long Form Music Video, but the group's members were disallowed by prison officials from attending the ceremony.
Prison Stories: Women on the Inside
Director
Three novels - three dramatic stories in the walls of the women's prison. The first story - a brand new, first went to prison inmates. The second - about a mother whose son has ceased to go to prison for visits. The third - about the experiences of women on the eve of its release.
Banned in the USA
Director
A video portrait of 2 Live Crew as they fought to release their album "Banned in the USA" during the censorship crisis of the late 80s and early 90s that ultimately resulted in the "PARENTAL ADVISORY EXPLICIT CONTENT" sticker. This 49-minute documentary was directed by Penelope Spheeris.
Wedding Band
Nicky's Mom
A couple who both work at wedding receptions encounter complications when they decide to marry.
Thunder and Mud
Herself
An entertaining combination of heavy-metal rockers and female mud wrestlers hosted by Jessica Hahn.
Thunder and Mud
Director
An entertaining combination of heavy-metal rockers and female mud wrestlers hosted by Jessica Hahn.
Decade
Herself
Interviews with personalities including John Mellencamp, Spike Lee, Lou Reed, Roseanne Barr, David Byrne, George Michael and more, as they reflect on the 1980s.
Calling the Shots
Self
Documentary about women in the film industry. Numerous notable actresses and female directors share their thoughts.
The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years
Director
An exploration of the heavy metal scene in Los Angeles, with particular emphasis on glam metal. It features concert footage and interviews of legendary heavy metal and hard rock bands and artists such as Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Megadeth, Motörhead, Ozzy Osbourne and W.A.S.P..
Стиляги
Director
Two punks from the big city, traveling across the country in a Volkswagen bug, embrace the western ethos when they must take revenge against a group of rednecks for killing their friend in this lighthearted road movie. Along the way, they enlist the help of a young woman who runs a wrecking service.
Summer Camp Nightmare
Screenplay
At Camp North Pines for Boys, the campers, led by the charismatic Franklin Reilly, stage a revolt against the strict owner, Mr. Warren, and lock him and the rest of the counselors up and take over the camp for themselves. But the revolt soon spirals out of control as the boys also lead a takeover of the nearby girls camp as well. Then, Mr. Warren is accidently killed trying to escape. Soon friction happens between the two boys and girls camps, while one camper, a certain Donald Poultry, tries to get the word out and unseat Franklin as the leader.
Соседские мальчишки
Director
Бо и Рой, два городских аутсайдера, после окончания колледжа решают отправиться на уикенд в Лос-Анджелес. Но увеселительная прогулка оборачиваете кошмаром: Бо и Рой неожиданно совершают зверское по жестокости убийство, и их кровавое путешествие шокирует всю страну. Что могло подтолкнуть к бесчеловечным поступкам обычных ребят — таких же, что живут с тобой по соседству?
Hollywood Vice Squad
Director
A mother goes to Hollywood to find her runaway daughter. She discovers that the girl has become involved in the pornography industry, and goes to the police to get help in finding her.
Пригород
Screenplay
Устав от проблем в семье, Эван уходит из дома и прибивается к группе других подростков из неблагополучных семей. Фильм рассказывает о жизни панков в одном из сквотов в пригородах Лос-Анджелеса в начале 1980-х годов.
Пригород
Director
Устав от проблем в семье, Эван уходит из дома и прибивается к группе других подростков из неблагополучных семей. Фильм рассказывает о жизни панков в одном из сквотов в пригородах Лос-Анджелеса в начале 1980-х годов.
The Decline of Western Civilization
Producer
The Los Angeles punk music scene circa 1980 is the focus of this film. With Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline, Circle Jerks, Fear, Germs, and X.
The Decline of Western Civilization
Writer
The Los Angeles punk music scene circa 1980 is the focus of this film. With Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline, Circle Jerks, Fear, Germs, and X.
The Decline of Western Civilization
Director
The Los Angeles punk music scene circa 1980 is the focus of this film. With Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline, Circle Jerks, Fear, Germs, and X.
Реальная жизнь
Producer
Дебютный фильм Альберта Брукса, представляющий собой едкую сатиру на такой известный феномен как "Реалити-ТВ". Шутки для фильма взяты из шоу "Субботним вечером в прямом эфире". Обольщение яркого шоу-бизнеса и соблазнительность всемогущего доллара проступают в каждом кадре этого гениального фильма.
Audience Research
Producer
Albert Brooks goes to a research institute to find out why people don't like him and how he can change that. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 9
Sick
Producer
Albert Brooks is sick and stuck in bed. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 7
Upcoming Season
Producer
Super mid-season replacements to failed shows in a network's super season. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 4
Heart Surgery
Producer
Albert places an ad in a newspaper expressing a desire to perform a heart bypass & gets to live his dream of being a heart surgeon for one day. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 3
Home Movies & Failed Candid-Camera Stunts
Producer
Albert Brooks introduces himself to the audience through showing them his home movies from childhood & attempts and fails at doing candid-camera style pranks. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 2
The Impossible Truth
Producer
Albert Brooks presents a mockumentary in which he presents several shocking news stories. Saturday Night Live, Season 1 Episode 1
The Second Coming of Suzanne
Margo, Logan's Film Group
Jared Martin plays an aspiring film maker obsessed with the idea of Christ as a woman, and tries to film his vision with Sondra Locke as his subject. 'Based' on a song by Leonard Cohen.
Brothers
Penny
Set in Los Angeles, Brothers tells the story of Vince, a brooding, mustachioed stud who’s visited by his kid brother Rick, a soldier serving in Vietnam. During Rick’s stay, the two siblings slowly confront their mutually hidden desires.
Hats Off to Hollywood
Director
Picking up the story first presented in I Don’t Know (1970), Hats Off to Hollywood (1972) brazenly and brilliantly mixes documentary reality with fully staged recreations/reimaginings of episodes in the lives of Jennifer and Dana, a loving, bickering couple who challenge the notion of homonormativity. Drugs, poverty, disease, bigotry and prostitution all figure into this disarmingly candid and often hilarious film, a remarkable work that is the apotheosis of director Spheeris’ early work, and a luminous signpost leading directly to The Decline of Western Civilization (1979-1997).
I Don't Know
Writer
A truly major work, I Don’t Know observes the relationship between a lesbian and a transgender person who prefers to be identified somewhere in between male and female, in an expression of personal ambiguity suggested by the film’s title. This nonfiction film – an unusual, partly staged work of semi-verité – is the first of Spheeris’s films to fully embrace what would become her characteristic documentary style: probing, intimate, uncompromising.
I Don't Know
Director
A truly major work, I Don’t Know observes the relationship between a lesbian and a transgender person who prefers to be identified somewhere in between male and female, in an expression of personal ambiguity suggested by the film’s title. This nonfiction film – an unusual, partly staged work of semi-verité – is the first of Spheeris’s films to fully embrace what would become her characteristic documentary style: probing, intimate, uncompromising.
The Ski Bum
Star the Witch
A ski instructor tries to teach a bunch of insanely eccentric people how to ski while dealing with everyone wanting his attention.
The National Rehabilitation Center
Director
Two years before Peter Watkins’ Punishment Park (1971), director Penelope Spheeris takes the McCarran Act to its inevitable next step and shows us—via an early use of mockumentary—what the U.S. might be like if potential subversives were simply locked up en masse before they had a chance to subvert anything. 16mm, color, 12 min. Director: Penelope Spheeris.1969.
Shit
Director
Shit (1969) Never completely finished during its original production, this snarky comic piece was rediscovered in director Penelope Spheeris’ vaults in 2010 and preserved “as is.” The titular substance plays a key role in determining an outmoded man’s role in a changing society. 16mm, color, 4 min. Director: Penelope Spheeris. 1969.
Bath
Director
Made in an environment and at a time when frequent and gratuitous images of nude women permeated the work of her male counterparts, director Penelope Spheeris produced this intimate and sensual observation of a woman bathing. The appearance of Spheeris’ credit at the beginning of the film seems to ask the question: how does voyeurism change when we know the voyeur is actually a voyeuse? 16mm, b/w, 6 min. Director: Penelope Spheeris.
Uncle Tom's Fairy Tales
Director
A white man goes on trial for having raped a black woman.
Synthesis
Director
Synthesis is director Penelope Spheeris' first film, made in 8mm Kodachrome while she was a student at UCLA. In a seemingly near-future control room devoid of people, various readouts and calculations suggest that humankind is not altogether compatible with the grand scheme of the universe. 1968. Color.
Boy and Crows
Director
An early short film by Penelope Spheeris about a boy enjoying the age-old pleasures of making a wish on a dandelion.