AN ENGLISHMAN IN NEW YORK

DVD Review

An Englishman in New York is only 75 minutes long. But the DVD has some splendid extra features (John Hurt talks about why he decided to star in the film, plus there's a wonderful feature about the many challenges of making New York appear as it did during the years Quentin Crisp lived and performed there).

For example, apart from an extra window or two (plus a private bathroom) - Quentin's room looks exactly as it did in real life: rather cluttered and dusty. In addition, the humiliating scene where Quentin tries to help Patrick Angus find a gallery to show his "nasty" paintings - is very true to life. The gallery owner was not very kind. Yet Quentin persisted, and a suitable gallery was eventually found.

Given that the artist died young (from complications due to AIDS), I was very moved by everything Quentin had done to help his dying friend: Especially given all the harsh criticism he received after he once infamously stated that AIDS is a fad.

But actions speak louder than words: Mr. Crisp quietly donated thousands of dollars to an organization dedicated to AIDS research. I think that was his way of offering a retraction. He remained a true original untl the end.

John Hurt 's performance is remarkable: The voice, timing (and even how Quentin walked) are all spot on. In fact, there are one or two unguarded moments where we get to see an emotionally naked Quentin Crisp. Hurt's acting is heartbreaking. Yet he also manages to capture all the great wit and joy for life that Quentin was famous for.

My only criticism of the film is that I wish it might have been a bit longer. Quentin lived in New York for two decades. Both the city (and the man) went through several changes. At the end of the film, one gets the feeling that Quentin knew he was returning to England to die. Since my last phone chat with him was a mere two weeks before he died - I was baffled and deeply saddened to discover this truth. I knew he was exhausted and experiencing several serious health problems, but he was his usual cheerful self on the phone, and there was no clue he was ready to say goodbye to the world.

An Englishman in New York brings Quentin back to us: Polite, witty, wise, and brave. And true bravery is rarely seen or known.

Viewer Rating: 10/10

Review © 2010 by Dylan Mitchell

*This review first appeared on Nigel Kelly's excellent site... dedicated to the life and times of Quentin Crisp. If you are a fan (or would like to learn more about a truly great spirit), then I encourage you to visit Nigel's site. It really is amazing.http://www.quentincrisp.info/