Review – The True Meaning of Pictures

This documentary on Shelby Lee Adams’ photographs of the people who live in poverty in the Appalachians benefits from its subject matter but suffers in just about every other respect. I guess Adams’ photos are kinda interesting, though in more than one of them it looks like he’s treating his subjects like zoo animals being placed on exhibit for their other-ness (especially the snake handlers). But his work is worth a look, at least. The commentary, on the other hand, wasn’t quite as welcome. Photos – and any other work of art, for that matter – should be presented to the viewer, who is then left to make what she or he will of them. If the artist intended to convey a message that isn’t ultimately conveyed, then that’s weak art. Adding a parcel of East Coast intellectuals sniping at this aspect or that of the photographer’s work adds nothing to the experience. Worse, it detracts from the power of the film by adding an annoying element. Mildly amusing