Obscene

"Obscene" is an entrancing documentary that delves into the life, work, and influence of one of the most controversial figures in the world of publishing, Barney Rosset. Released in 2007 and directed by Neil Ortenberg and Daniel O'Connor, this film is a tribute to a man who resisted conservative norms and bravely published uncensored works by revolutionary writers such as Amiri Baraka, Lenny Bruce, and William S. Burroughs.

The film threads together a vivid tapestry of interviews, archival footage, and evocative animations to give life to the bold and path-breaking journey of Barney Rosset. For Rosset, revolution wasn't about guns and violence, but rather the weapon of the pen and the power of radical ideas to question the status quo.

The film starts with establishing Rosset's early years. Born into wealth, he was a rebel during his teenage years, and his rebellious streak extended well into his adulthood. He served in World War II and used his experience to reshape his understanding of what impact literature could have on society.

In the 1950s, Rosset bought a small, struggling publishing house called Grove Press and started publishing books that no other book publisher would dare to touch. He gave a platform to writers such as Henry Miller and Samuel Beckett, whose works were initially considered too shocking or obscene for the American public.

Rosset also published revolutionary writers like Amiri Baraka, Lenny Bruce, and William S. Burroughs. He risked lawsuits, outrage, and even personal harm to ensure the freedom of these writers to express their minds without restraint.

"Obscene" provides a captivating look at the sequence of obscenity trial transcripts that followed the publication of such radical works. These trials were not just about the legal system's response to challenging literature, but they also give us a lens into the societal values and sensibilities of the time.

The film pays homage to Rosset's ingenuity and spirit of defiance. He would not be cowed down by state censorship, moral crusaders, or even the financial turbulence of most of the Grove Press years. His belief that every work deserves an opportunity to be read, challenged, and critiqued is what catapulted Grove Press and its authors into infamy and respect.

The filmmakers touch upon the fabric of the socio-political context of the time to highlight Rosset's place in it. They beautifully connect the threads of the anti-censorship battles fought by Rosset to the broader cultural shifts in America. By doing so, they underline the importance of the publishing house as not just a forerunner in the literary world but also a key player in the counterculture movement of the 1960s.

Featuring insightful commentary by many literary stalwarts, including Gore Vidal, John Rechy, and Erica Jong, "Obscene" is an enlightening watch. The archival footage featuring interviews with Allen Ginsberg, Malcolm X, and Beat poet Gregory Corso lend an immersive quality to the narrative, aiding in painting a clear picture of the era. There’s also a special appearance by musician John Lennon and wife Yoko Ono, who supported Rosset during his time of crisis.

On a technical level, the film shines with its restrained yet impactful use of animations. They add a layer of introspection and philosophical inquiry, underscoring the didactic power of literature to challenge and shape societal norms.

Neil Ortenberg and Daniel O'Connor, the directors of "Obscene," have crafted a unique, compelling piece of work. The documentary's brilliance lies in how it contextualizes Barney Rosset's contribution to literature. They present him with all his flaws and eccentricities, humanizing him in the process and thereby making the narrative more relatable.

"Obscene" is not only a film about Barney Rosset, but it’s also an exploration of the revolutionary power of literature and freedom of speech. It reminds us of the significant role of publishers as gatekeepers and how they can serve as catalysts for societal change. This movie will prove invaluable for anyone interested in literature, free speech, and publishing, but it is just as much a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the dynamics of cultural shifts and how one man's tenacity can transform the literary world.