For No Good Reason
Dick Adair
Rehabilitated cartoonist, artist/writer
Where and with whom did you see the film?
I saw this movie with my indulgent wife Margot at Kahala Theater.
Overall, what did I think of the movie?
As an artist, one can’t help but love this film. As a writer, following the escapades of Hunter S. Thompson is a lark.
Steadman and Thompson are like two sides of the same coin but neither heads nor tails.
And finally: The title of this film is somewhat arcane, but it is explained in the denouement.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
Ralph Steadman is evidently Zen-inspired; his exaggerations and caricatures are beyond abstract.
No doubt he works unconsciously, throwing ink like Motherwell and lusting after de Kooning’s women.
Don’t try to follow his line. There’s madness in that direction!
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
The only other person in the afternoon viewing was an elderly lady, who laughed hysterically.
We both give the film ★★★★.
What did you think of the cinematography?
Steadman demonstrated his artistic technique to Johnny Depp, who interviewed him. The animation is great.
There are references to Francis Bacon, Picasso and Leonardo da Vinci.
Did any of the actors stand out?
Steadman drank some, but not like Thompson. He was not into drugs, but was no doubt born stoned.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?
The soundtrack’s pop music will appeal to youngsters.
Was the message/theme of the movie clear?
This is not a dramatic film. It is a biography of Ralph Steadman. It is well done, funny and entertaining. It is an attempt to understand the creative drive of the artist.
To whom would you recommend this movie?
I would recommend this film to any fan of Jean-Michel Basquiat or Hieronymus Bosch.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
Yes, I will buy this film to watch again with my popcorn.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
At the moment, I am organizing my work for a show somewhere.
Dick Adair is a MidWeek cartoonist who has won the past two Pa’i Awards for editorial cartoons.
