By Fred Topel | Image property of Warner Independent
Towelhead
The DVD of Towelhead takes an interesting perspective on bonus features. They knew going into the film that this was tough material, that the very title of the novel was a hot button, let alone the subjects it addresses. So instead of doing talking head EPK featurettes, extra footage and other promotional memorabilia, they tackle it head on.
On DVD: Towelhead
The only bonus features are panel discussions between Alan Ball and his actors, and Alan Ball and the author with spokespeople for Islamic Americans and Sikhs sitting in on each panel. These are not public Q&As. They are shot in a studio, almost like a pre-emptive defense to any viewers of the DVD.
Ball has notes so he’s really professional and prepared about discussing issues. These are intelligent speakers so their discussion is thorough. It’s more focused than perhaps a commentary track, though perhaps too proud of itself for addressing the issues. I mean, if you make a controversial movie, it’s not all okay just because you invite people to represent their viewpoints on the DVD.
Perhaps what undermines these spots if the fact that this movie didn’t really make any waves. A few groups responded to it but masses just didn’t go see it. They should have. It was quite good. But it didn’t create any feelings towards a culture one way or the other, so it’s kind of irrelevant.
The material is fine. It was surely prepared before any box office impact was determined. The viewpoints exist and they’re preserved. It just doesn’t resonate a whole lot right now.
Towelhead
Add to Heffee!
