-GUS VAN SANT
FOLLOW YOUR OWN WEIRD
James Broughton’s advice, “Follow your own Weird,” animates the documentary Big Joy: The Adventures of James Broughton, which shows how this little-known queer filmmaker and poet fought against the grain of dominant culture to live an authentic life. Big Joy explores Broughton’s life, art, and love where he weaves the quirky, bizarre, sexual and charming – all with a sprinkle of spirituality.
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EXTRA INTERVIEWS AND STORIES
POETRY READINGS
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JAMES BROUGHTON
James’ story shows what it means to be yourself, how making art can keep you from losing hope, and how you can find true love – and yourself – at age 62, or any age. The luminous life and work of James Broughton has hit the big screen. Big Joy: the Adventures of James Broughton provides a humorous antidote to the cynicism and materialism of our age.
Led by journalist and futurist Stephen Silha, who had a mentorship relationship with Broughton for the last 10 of his 85 years, the Big Joy project brings together the skills of many artists and media-makers who have been influenced by Broughton.
Award-winning filmmaker Eric Slade, is the film’s # 1 co-director. He is especially known for creating the PBS documentary “Hope Along the Wind” on the life of gay rights pioneer Harry Hay.
The Big Joy film creates a journey through the life and works of the exquisite poet, a vibrant lover, innovator, and role model James Broughton. Most importantly, those people who knew or worked with James will share their stories and insights into the life of this master of visual and verbal images.
