Chumlum

USA, 1964. Director Ron Rice. 26min.

Before his untimely death in Mexico in 1964, Ron Rice was among the most charismatic figures of the New York underground. Chumlum is beautifully disconcerting. Intricate superimpositions mix in- and outdoor milieus and the capers of a colourful gaggle which includes Jack Smith and Mario Montez as they loll about, pursue, and listlessly fondle each other in a riot of costume and colour. Experimental musician (and Velvet Underground drop-out) Angus MacLise composed the spacey soundtrack.

With Jack Smith, Beverly Grant and Mario Montez.

Past screenings

Birds of Paradise – London
Sunday 5 December 2010, 16:00 | Tate Modern
Screened alongside Lupe (1966) as a part of the ‘Drag Glamour’ strand. With introduction by Ronald Gregg.

Birds of Paradise – New York
Saturday 23 April 2011, 19:00 | Museum of the Moving Image
Screened alongside Lupe (1966) as a part of the ‘Drag Glamour’ strand.

Birds of Paradise – UK Tour
Sunday 11 March 2012, 17:00 | Arnolfini, Bristol
Screened alongside Lupe (1966) as a part of the ‘Drag Glamour’ strand.