Saturday, January 5, 2013

Craigslist Joe

Directed by: Joseph Garner












The central question of the documentary "Craigslist Joe" is simple: Can a person survive an entire month using only the kindness of strangers via Craigslist?  Starting from that point, Joseph Garner sets out to discover what "community" means in 21st century America.  Leaving behind his entire life, he hits the road with whoever will drive him and stays where anyone has an extra room available.

"Craigslist Joe" was interesting, though I'm afraid I'm not sure it made a point.  (Perhaps I wasn't paying enough attention?)  Ostensibly, the filmmaker is attempting to find "community," but rather than providing an answer, the film meanders around the country, providing brief glimpses into the lives of those who are generous enough to post on Craigslist.

I found the movie interesting, but flawed.  It didn't seem to have a point, and felt more like a video diary than a real documentary.  (So, maybe that's where I'm missing the bigger picture?)  Still, it's a interesting look into modern life and the many paths that are opened through the internet.

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