Ken Jacobs, US 1957-59/2004, 400 mins
Free Admission
A screening of Star Spangled to Death, Ken Jacobs’ episodic
indictment of American politics, religion, war,
racism and stupidity, timed to coincide with the US election
and the end of the Bush regime. Starring Richard Nixon,
Nelson Rockefeller, Mickey Mouse, Al Jolson and a cast
of thousands.
Jacobs’ extraordinary epic combines whole found films,
documentaries, newsreels, musicals and cartoons with
improvised performances by the legendary Jack Smith and
Jerry Sims. Together they picture a dangerously sold-out
America where racial and religious prejudice, the
monopolisation of wealth and an addiction to war are opposed
by Beat generation irreverence.
Presented by Whitechapel at Chisenhale, in collaboration with
Mark Webber and tank.tv.
Star Spangled to Death will be shown with several
intermissions. Refreshments available, or bring a packed lunch
and a cushion !
A portfolio of 20 works by Ken Jacobs are currently online at
www.tank.tv
