Film Lens
Resident Alien is a documentary about British writer and actor Quentin Crisp, directed by Jonathan Nossiter. The film captures Crisp's life in New York City at the age of 72, showcasing his experiences as an openly gay man. The narrative is built around John Foster's camera following Crisp through Manhattan, where he engages with friends, performs on stage, and shares his observations on life. The film presents a portrait of Crisp that intertwines his wit with the struggles he faced as a member of the LGBTQ community.
The documentary features commentary from various individuals who know Crisp, discussing his impact on the gay rights movement and his unique persona. Critics have noted the film's emotional depth, as it portrays Crisp's frail living conditions and the dynamics of his relationships with those around him. The film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1991 and is noted for its candid representation of Crisp's life and the complexities of fame and identity.
Why Watch
- •Meet Quentin Crisp, 'England's stateliest homo'.
- •See Crisp's life in a Bowery rooming house.
- •Follow Crisp's interactions with John Hurt.
Did You Know
•Resident Alien premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1991.
•Quentin Crisp was 72 years old when he moved to New York.
•The film features appearances by Sting, John Hurt, and Fran Lebowitz.
•The DVD release of the film was on September 27, 2005.
Perfect For
LGBTQ historyQuentin Crisp fansDocumentary enthusiasts