1998 Movie
Dir. Hal Hartley · United States of America · English
A rambling but profound ode to American blue-collar work and intellectualism
It’s easy to mistake Henry Fool for one of those stylish, aimless movies that only look smart but are, essentially, hollow. But it’s not one of those films. Directed by indie director Hal Hartley, Henry Fool is a funny and poignant look into American blue-collar life. The deadpan look, blocky colors, and unrealistic but philosophical dialogue add to the charm. Still, the film’s surprising capacity for hope and humanity makes it a timeless and highly watchable film. This is peak American independent cinema, and it’s one that deserves more credit.
An egocentric bum transforms the lives of a shy New Jersey garbageman and his sister.
"it is as philosophical, political and pornographic as Henry describes his own work to be - an expansive comic book 'novel of ideas' all at once provocative and funny, which will come to be regarded as Hartley's life work."
— Anton Bitel
Garbage man Simon (James Urbaniak) decides to shift careers when he meets Henry Fool (Thomas Jay Ryan), a writer who convinces Simon he has poetic talents.
Seriously, Parker Posey deserves an award for her remarkable contributions to the indie cinema movement of the ‘90s.
Before there was Patterson, there was Henry Fool.
Cannes
1 win · 1 nom
Renee Cuisia is the lead curator at A Good Movie to Watch. In her spare time, she likes to watch K-dramas and analyze them to death. She's also seen You've Got Mail one too many times but is still convinced it's one of the greatest films out there.
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