Multiple Maniacs (1970)

Multiple Maniacs

• As of this review, I’ve seen Water’s Trash Trilogy, and now this. Even though it’s only four films, and I have several more to go, he’s dangerously close to being on my Mount Rushmore of most influential directors of all time (that influence me specifically, not just in general). The dude is so twisted in the head, I can’t help but be completely in love with him, his mind, and his work. I don’t know how I went this long without diving into his filmography. John, if you’re reading this, you have inspired me in so many ways and you are never allowed to die. But onto the film. It’s extremely low budget and obviously handmade and very DIY, which is what makes it excel so much. I will die on the hill that simplicity will almost always trump a big budget and big sets. You don’t need a major studio or major actors to be able to make a good film. All you need is a camera and a dream. Exactly as Waters did. The story in this one is a good start to his sleazefest run, as this a perfect segue into his Trash Trilogy. It’s very crime oriented, with plenty of abstract and surreal representation of queerness, violence, and filth. I’m not correlating queerness with violence and filth, but if you’re familiar with Waters, then you know exactly how he represents those things. Now, this film is pretty light (in terms of his “filth” style) compared to what’s to come, but it’s still raunchy, gross, and fun. One moment, there’s a puke eater, and then there’s cannibalism, and then there’s a giant lobster having its way with Divine. You never know what to expect, and it’s gorgeous. Everything is edited together so smoothly, and even though it’s technically jumpy between scenes and events, it still almost feels like one giant shot. The cast is very exaggerated and a bit goofy, but it’s completely in the norm for Waters’ filmography. Divine is so precious to me, and any time he’s committing an act of violence or sex, you can’t help but just want to be him. That’s insanely psychotic to say, but it’s true. It’s just the way Waters is able to put that stuff on screen. Hardcore and vile, but entertaining nonetheless. Overall, this is a hilarious and intriguing film that will gross you out, but also holds your attention the entire time. I’m so addicted to Waters right now, it’s not even funny. I would recommend this to all crime/dark comedy fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!