Corman’s World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel

Corman’s World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel (2011)

Directed by Alex Stapleton

Roger Corman has produced over 400 films, directed over 50, and had a hand in many more. Despite his enormous body of work you might not have heard of many of his movies. His films include titles like The Fall of the House of Usher, Death Race, andThe Little Shop of Horrors(1960). He recieved an honorary Oscar for his lifetime of film work. He’s also been given a star on the walk of fame in Hollywood. Called the “King of B’s” for his low-budget approach to film making, he’s also been involved in the careers of many of the finest talents in the movie business. He’s worked with Ron Howard, Jack Nicholson, William Shatner, Jonathan Demme, and Robert DeNiro. Despite this incredible resume he’s still a name most movie goers wouldn’t recognize.

This documentary takes a look at the body of work that has come from the brave and always-working Roger Corman. Intimate interviews with many stars from his films shed light on his style of work and the reasons for his lack of success with the media and critics. Alex Stapleton does a wonderful job capturing the love and respect the people inside Hollywood have for his work. Star after star express their respect and appreciation for their chances to work with him. At the same time they all express embarrassment for work in films like The Fast and the Furious (1955) and Grand Theft Auto (1977).

Corman was also one of the first people in the movie business to embrace foreign filmmakers. He worked to get films by directors like Ingmar Bergman onto American screens.

This is a really fun documentary about a man who has gone from science fiction to exploitation films to horror movies all in one career. The clips from the films not only show some of his early work, but also the early work of some of the actors interviewed. If you’re a film buff you NEED to see this movie. It’s a lighthearted look at one of the most eccentric and genius people in Hollywood. I give this one 4 out of 5 stars.

Directed by Alex Stapleton

Running Time: 95 minutes