An uncompromisingly independent filmmaker, Les Blank made documentaries for nearly fifty years, elegantly disappearing with his camera into cultural spots rarely seen on-screen—mostly on the peripheries of the United States, but also occasionally abroad. Seemingly off-the-cuff yet poetically constructed, these films are humane, sometimes wry, always engaging tributes to music, food, and all sorts of regionally specific delights. This collector’s set provides a diverse survey of Les Blank’s vast output, including fourteen of his best-known works and eight related short films.
14 films
God Respects Us When We Work, But Loves Us When We Dance
1968
The Blues Accordin' to Lightnin' Hopkins
1968
A Well Spent Life
1971
Spend It All
1972
Dry Wood
1973
Hot Pepper
1973
Always for Pleasure
1978
Garlic Is as Good as Ten Mothers
1980
Sprout Wings and Fly
1983
Watching
In Heaven There Is No Beer?
1984
Gap-Toothed Women
1987
Yum, Yum, Yum! A Taste of the Cajun and Creole Cooking of Louisiana
1990
Sworn to the Drum: A Tribute to Francisco Aguabella
1995
The Maestro: King of the Cowboy Artists
1995
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A joyous romp through the dance, food, music, friendship, and even religion of the Polka. The explosive energy and high spirits of the polka subculture are rendered with warmth and dedication to scholarship in this journey through Polish-American celebrations. Polka stars like Jimmy Sturr, Eddie Blazonzyck and Walt Solek are featured.
