Blackstar: Autobiography of a Close Friend (1976)
In this experimental, self-ethnographic documentary, Tom Joslin blends breathtaking, moving snapshots from the natural world, filmic cultural touchstones, and cutting (pseudo) cinéma vérité to dissect and reassemble his gay identity despite constant warnings to stay in the closet. Blackstar sees Joslin and partner Mark Massi fleshing out their enduring commitment and obvious love for one another amidst the insecurity that a self-conscious documentary lens instills. As interviews with Joslin’s mother, father, and brothers attempt to break down the legitimacy of Joslin and Massi’s romance, the pair use everything at their disposal, including inspiration from gay revolutionaries and painfully honest conversations, to hold up their “abnormality” as a point of pride rather than shame. – Shayna Warner
Director: Tom Joslin
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Tom Joslin as |
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Mark Massi as |
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Mary Joslin as |
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Charles Joslin as |
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Whitey Joslin as |
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David Macaulay as |
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Dave Joslin as |
| Camera | Mark Massi | Camera Supervisor |
| Camera | Loren Hammer | Camera Supervisor |
| Camera | Peter O'Neill | Camera Supervisor |
| Editing | Tom Joslin | Editor |
| Camera | John Terry | Camera Supervisor |
| Sound | Peter O'Neill | Sound |
| Sound | Loren Hammer | Sound |
| Camera | Tom Joslin | Camera Supervisor |
| Editing | Mark Massi | Editor |
| Directing | Tom Joslin | Director |
