AMERICAN GOTH Sunday 16 June, 8:30pm

ABOUT

American Goth, an 86-minute feature documentary, provides an in-depth examination of Gothic culture, which is often typified by black clothes and an interest in dark music, literature, and culture. In a post-Columbine era, Goths have been perceived and stereotyped in many ways. American Goth is a D.I.Y.-style, conversational documentary that asks if Goth culture poses a threat to society or if it is simply an alternative lifestyle. With a think-for-yourself approach, this guerilla film features Goths in their own words, and first-time filmmaker Ryan Rhea explores their unique place in todays society. The film is divided into sections including the Goth Scene, Gothic Origins, Goths and Music, Goths and Society, Paganism, Vampirism, Witchcraft, Goths and Spirituality, and Prejudice. The idea from the film came out of a reaction to hearing about the Goth Grant, $273,000 given to the community of Blue Springs, Missouri, to investigate Goth culture. Ryan Rhea's film questioned the validity of such a grant, but ultimately provided an overview of Gothic culture, and the people in it, in a much broader context.

Directed by Ryan Rea.  Music by PJ Corvus.