John Waters hasn’t directed a film in years (10 years!?) and it’s a dirty shame. The man is only 68; he has so much more filth to give. Discovering the films and philosophy of John Waters was, for me, a big part of my own self-discovery in the early days of my search for a place in the universe (and my place in modern American society). John Waters’ world is an upside-down one; perverse, soiled, and weird; with a real, effortless pride supporting all of it. There may never have been a greater waver of the freak flag than Waters and the gnarly, grizzled band of artist misfits that he has long called family down in Baltimore, the Dreamlanders.

Waters is a singular individual, a suit wearing mustachioed anomaly. There’s never been another artist like him. Appreciate this man, his impact, and his astounding influence on various counter cultures of today. Watch his films! DESPERATE LIVING (1977) – oh my god!!! Take a summer trip to Provincetown, and get run into by The Pope of Trash on his bike (almost happened to me, and I wish it had).

While I continue to hope that this giant of scum cinema (and overt conjurer of mainstream cultural mockery) makes another film, he continues to churn out new material in book form. ROLE MODELS was released a few years back. In it, Waters breaks down his formative influences in the expected sordid detail and with the expected askew wit.

On June 14th, this hero of strange comes to the Brattle Theater to speak about his new book, the already classically titled, CARSICK: JOHN WATERS HITCHHIKES ACROSS AMERICA. Can’t miss. Raise an eyebrow, and a glass/ paper cup/ decorative plastic mug (filled with any variety, any grade, of alcoholic beverage) to this Prince of Puke.

– Dan Shea

Unfortunately, the special talk has already SOLD OUT. John Waters will be appearing in-person to sign books at 2PM for FREE.

JOHN WATERS IN-PERSON
6/14 – 2PM, FREE

Harvard Book Store
1256 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138