Women in prison (WiP) films came into the limelight sometime in the late 1960s, however they are referenced as far back as the 1930s and 50s. By the late 60s, these films were dubbed a subgenre of filmmaking known as exploitation films. Often, women were subjected to sexual or physical torture and abuse from the prison staff, humiliated by strip search, engaged in catfights or subjected to taunting from fellow inmates. It is likely the most recognized exploitation actress of our time is Pam Grier (The Big Dollhouse, The Big Birdcage). Notably, many of these films are referred to as cult classics or B-rated. Some are still banned today for their sexual content.
In Steve Balderson's most ambitious film yet, you meet Daisy (Starina Johnson), a young woman who is accused of killing her mother and sentenced to death by hanging. As she waits behind bars for her last call, Daisy befriends four women all learning to cope with their status in prison. Daisy is conflicted by the horror of her mother's death and her struggle to get to know the other prisoners, while fighting off harassment by "Amazon" the power hungry prison guard played by Stacy Cunningham.
Stuck! is a throwback to WiP films, cult classics, film noir and B-Rated cinema. Starring the legendary cult favorite Karen Black(My Life for a Song, Firecracker) as the nosy neighbor, Susan Traylor is MeMe the tough killer widow, Mink Stole (Lost Highway, Cry-Baby, Pink Flamingos)as the pious tax-evading prisoner, Pleasant Gehman (Underbelly, Firecracker, The Velvet Hammer Burlesque) as the saucy Dutch and the childlike Princess is played by Jane Wiedlin. Stuck will premiere worldwide in October and is slated for official release in 2010.
Balderson is best known for his unique editing style, contagious laugh and his uncompromising devotion to his art. He often exudes influence from legendary directors including David Lynch, Alfred Hitchcock and John Waters and has won awards at the Raindance and Fantasporto film festivals.
Bobbye Bennett's solo exhibit "Line Flow, Unfettered." opens December 4 and runs through the end of the month.
Bennett works in several media-- from graphite renderings to watercolor paintings, and from pastel drawings to sculpture made of ordinary materials, felt paper, and plywood armatures.For her exhibition at Canal Street, she is bringing paintings and drawings that are influenced by nature.Many will depict water and sea life.
The opening reception is free and open to the public and will be held from 6-9 pm.
