Review of Pink Flamingos (1972) by Tim L — 20 Mar 2011

Glad I finally got to see this famous cult film. The story of rivals for the title of 'filthiest person in America' gives you some inclination that to say its an acquired taste is the understatement of the century.

John Waters shows he is the rightful successor to Andy Wahol's by surrounding himself with the most degenerate, messed up 'freaks' he can find, pointing a camera at them and creating a disgusting and challenging world all of his own. Scenes of acted abduction, violent sex and all-too-real animal mutilation is thrown at the viewer.

The acting is so appalling that it must be done on purpose. The tagline that it is 'an exercise in bad taste' shows the main thrust of this film; to shock and appall middle-America. And I have no doubt it was succesful in doing this, as well as inspiring many indie film-makers to push the boundaries of acceptability and taste in cinema. You can also see direct influences on stories such as The Rocky Horror Show.

Truly original and unique, though maybe not one I'd watch every week!