Hey everyone. Capone in Chicago here.
I believe it was at the SXSW Film Festival of 2009 that I saw WINNEBAGO MAN, one of the best documentaries I saw that year (it made my 15 Best Docs list, coming in at Number 8). I felt for certain that this profile of one of the internet's first YouTube heroes, Jack Rebney, would be released without hesititation. I guess with docs, it's a bit tougher to predict what will get released or catch on, but I can't imagine a single soul watching this movie and not finding some aspect utterly fascinating. Rebney's profanity laden outtakes from what appears to be an in-house selling took for the Winnebago sales staff made the VHS rounds before they were put on YouTube, where millions of people giggled with delight at Rebney's seemingly insane rants. Here's a sweet taste of Rebney's angry genius:
Part of the film focuses on a thoughtful examination of what makes some clips an internet phenomenon and others seem forced and not as interesting. The rest of WINNEBAGO MAN is the search for the reclusive Rebney and attempts to get him to a found-footage film festival where he can meet his adoring fans. This part of the film is absolutely gripping and in so many ways heart wrenching.
Earlier today, I received word that WINNEBAGO MAN was picked up by Kino International and will begin what I hope is a fruitful national run in New York on July 9. Even better news for folks in Chicago is that the film will be previewed at the Gene Siskel Film Center on June 16 in collaboration with the TBS Comedy Festival, with director Ben Steinbauer on hand to answer audience questions. I can guarantee you this thing will sell out, so please buy your tickets early HERE.
I believe the film will be rolling out across the country this summer. DO. NOT. MISS. IT. And now, here's what you came for, the official trailer for WINNEBAGO MAN. Enjoy…
-- Capone
capone@aintitcool.com
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