Beautiful Losers Brings Out the DIY Art Love at SXSW Film Festival

A Documentary Directed by Aaron Rose and co-directed by Joshua Leonard - Premier on Day 2 of SXSW, Austin, TX March 9, 2008. Beautiful Losers, a documentary based on the book by Aaron Rose of the same name, takes a look at the lives and works Jo Jackson, Chris Johanson, Geoff McFetridge, Barry McGee, Stephen Powers II, Mike Mills, Margaret Kilgallen and other artists most famous for being self-taught or DIY-ers. Before the movie started, Rose summed up the premise for the audience perfectly, "This film is also about growing up. Start from nothing, with no real plan, no direction, and build a whole world for yourself and for your friends." The sincerity in his voice was unmistakable.

Beautiful Losers at times seemed to struggle deciding whether or not to tell the stories chronologically or topically. So there are places where the film seems disjointed, but then comes back around to pick up the thread it left behind in another profile. Each of the artist's stories has its own strength and brings out not only the character of their work, but also their personality. Particularly moving are the sections of the film about the late Margaret Kilgallen (1967-2001), wife and collaborator of Barry McGee. Her scenes radiate off the screen and seem almost tranquil compared to the occasionally dark and gritty environment the rest of the film can exude. When she looks full on into the camera, the audience can't help but be captivated by her gaze. Watching her paint was equally mesmerizing. One of the very best parts of the film was when she talked about the fallicy of seeking perfection in art.