Pecker

That is, in fact, the main character's name.Even when John Waters delivers a movie that isn't to his normal speed, it still manages to be thoroughly entertaining. There is an autobiographical nature to this movie that serves as a funny reflection of the man himself. A photographer who isn't interested in the pretty landscapes, but instead shoots the everyday lives of Baltimore, even the rat sex, or an extreme close-up of a full bush. John Waters spent years making weird, low-budget films with his friends before going mainstream, and 'Pecker' shows how the mainstream attention of smaller artists can lead to a feeling of alienation from those around you. It's an interesting idea, and it's done quite well. The actors work well with Waters' style, with this being the most I've ever liked Edward Furlong. Lili Taylor and Christina Ricci are welcome additions to the JWCU, and the Dreamlanders all get memorable roles. A part of the reason why I rated this the way I did was that this doesn't feel like it has the bite that something like 'Serial Mom' or 'Polyester' does when it comes to its commentary. It's a solid movie, but it's far from John Waters' best; I'd still recommend it.