One Crazy 80s Summer in 2013, Part 1 – Crispin Glover

What an adventurous summer thus far, June was quite surreal—I feel like I am actually living in the 80s!

Last month kicked off with meeting Crispin Glover, an admired actor of mine who was extremely instrumental in my fall for the decade, having starred as George McFly in my most beloved movie, “Back to the Future.” In the latter part of the 80s, he launched the book publishing company Volcanic Eruptions, which also produced the two films he directed, “What Is It?” (2005) and “It is Fine! Everything is Fine” (2007). 

Travelling independently to perform narrations of his writings and screen the films, Glover appeared at the Alamo Drafthouse in downtown Kansas City on June 11 & 12. The two nights featured readings and a screening of one of the films followed by a Q&A session and book signing.

Book signing with Crispin Glover after his performance and screening
at the Alamo Drafthouse in Kansas City on June 12, 2013

I attended the second evening with fellow Metro Pro star Steve Girthy, which showcased “What Is It?,” a fiercely intense and eccentric flick that largely casted actors with Down’s Syndrome and follows the happenings of a snail-obsessed boy highly afflicted by a brash inner psyche. In the Q&A session, Glover described the film as his reaction to corporate cinema, approaching several topics that are seen as taboo in our society. It causes viewers to question their own morality simply by sitting in the theater and watching. To my delight, he also shared some insights to “Back to the Future,” as well as how big business impacts the story of many Hollywood blockbusters.

The night closed with autographs and photos, but he also generously gave ample time with each audience member. He spent a good 5–10 minutes with everyone answering any further questions and learning about us individually. I fervently await his next stop through the city to screen his second title and highly recommend that fans track his tour. It is not only the best way to view these two films, but it is the only way—you will not find them available in video stores or on Amazon. Follow closely and quickly snag yourself seats for a personal encounter with the most colorful character in the movie industry when he visits a town near you!

Crispin Glover's book "Concrete Inspection"
with a personalized autograph

Next, Part 2 of One Crazy Summer in 2013 featuring the Huey Lewis and the News concert from The Midland by AMC!