Big Time

In the eccentric and enigmatic film 'Big Time,' Tom Waits serves as both the director and lead musician, weaving a mesmerizing tale that defies conventions. The film's narrative is woven around Waits' music, with the story unfolding in a non-linear and dreamlike manner. The story centers around the enigmatic and charismatic character of M. Hulot, played by R. Crumb, a renowned cartoonist and illustrator. Crumb brings his distinct style to the role, as M. Hulot navigates a world that is both hauntingly beautiful and eerily surreal. The film's setting is an abandoned carnival, where M. Hulot becomes embroiled in a series of surreal and often bizarre events. As M. Hulot wanders through the desolate carnival grounds, the audience is introduced to a diverse array of characters, each with their own unique quirks and charms. There's the mysterious and alluring 'Girl with the Red Hair,' played by Anna Levine, who captivates M. Hulot with her enigmatic smile and seductive charm. Then there's Tom Waits' character, 'The Man,' who appears in various guises throughout the film, often interacting with M. Hulot in unexpected and often bewildering ways. Throughout the film, Tom Waits' music serves as the primary narrative drive, guiding the audience through a kaleidoscope of emotions and imagery. His jazzy, bluesy tunes are perfectly suited to the film's surreal atmosphere, often incorporating elements of vaudeville, cabaret, and circus music. The use of music as a driving force behind the narrative creates a sense of fluidity, allowing the story to unfold in unexpected ways. As M. Hulot becomes more deeply embroiled in the carnival's mysteries, he begins to uncover a dark and troubled history. The carnival, once a place of joy and wonder, has become a shadow of its former self, haunted by the ghosts of its past. Through M. Hulot's journey, the film explores themes of decay, abandonment, and the human condition. Throughout the film, Tom Waits' collaborations with other artists add to its unique charm. The film features cameos from a range of musicians, including Joe 'King' Perry, Keith Richards, and Bill Frisell, each bringing their own distinct musical style to the project. These collaborations not only add to the film's musical breadth but also help to create a sense of community and shared creativity. One of the most striking aspects of 'Big Time' is its unconventional storytelling. The film's narrative is presented in a non-linear fashion, with events unfolding in a way that defies traditional notions of cause and effect. This approach creates a sense of disorientation, mirroring the surreal atmosphere of the film. At times, the narrative becomes almost dreamlike, with M. Hulot's experiences blurring into one another in a haze of color and sound. Despite its unconventional narrative, 'Big Time' remains a deeply human film, exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption. Through M. Hulot's journey, the film offers a poignant commentary on the human condition, highlighting our capacity for resilience and our desire for connection in the face of adversity. Overall, 'Big Time' is a captivating and deeply original film, one that defies convention and pushes the boundaries of storytelling. With its unique blend of music and narrative, Tom Waits creates a film that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply memorable.