The Indiepix Films April 24, 2018 DVD release of the 1973 documentary "Henry Miller Asleep & Awake" easily is one of the most artsy and unique titles of the year. The brilliantly simple concept of this film is that the titular author of the highly controversial semi-autobiographical books The Tropic of Cancer and The Tropic of Capricorn provides filmmaker Tom Schiller a tour of the numerous images hanging on his bathroom walls.
"Miller" further is notable as being almost pure cinema verite documentary. Although likely edited, Schiller merely points his camera at his subject and lets him have his say with virtually no prompting by the man behind that recording device.
This look at arguably the smallest and most intimate art gallery in the world can be considered "Being Henry Miller" in that it provides insight into the mind of this outspoken writer who clearly is not wired like many of us. Although he is 81 at the time of the filming, Miller delights in joking that the amount of time that visitors spend viewing his collection indicates that they are constipated.
The sublime includes Miller discussing the story of a grand European home and the philosophy of a great thinker that both have places of honor in this porcelain palace. The ridiculous involves some of the art coming to life in a manner that proves that the snow on the roof of Miller does not diminish the white-hot fire in the furnace of this man who makes Hugh Hefner seem like a eunuch.
Another example of Miller showing the former Playboy founder Hugh's boss relates to a publicity photo of the scribe and the cast of either Cancer or Capricorn. The look in the eye of this man as he discusses the women embracing the spirit of the film provides some insight regarding the history of both books previously being banned in the United States.
Schiller shows great instincts in beginning to wind up the film with Miller discussing a philosopher known for asking a series of questions that our guide states cannot be answered. This leads to Miller discussing existential issues and taking the audience along on his journey outside his comfort zone.
Anyone with questions or comments regarding "Miller" is encouraged either to email me or to connect on Twitter via @tvdvdguy.
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