The Callers

This three-generation family can auction (almost) anything!
Being a longtime attendee of "country" and "estate" auctions in Eastern Pennsylvania (especially in Lancaster and Berks County, where more such auctions take place), I was particularly interested in seeing this new film. It was filmed in these two counties and concentrates - mostly - on the Zettlemoyer Auction Company outside of Allentown, PA where the three generations of Zettlemoyer men are still going strong with weekly (sometimes more) auctions. There are other area auctioneers featured but the Zettlemoyers seem to get most of the screen time.

With all the interest in "what is stuff worth?" reality TV shows (Antiques Roadshow, Pawn Stars, Storage Wars, etc), this DVD release is very timely. And, if you like those reality shows, you'll probably enjoy this. I will warn you that the director has a habit of not carrying the filming of the auctioning of a unique item to the conclusion so that you will hear what it went for. This is particularly annoying in the coverage of...

A Glimpse Into The Past: Dedicating Your Life To The Art Of The Sale
With all the interest in shows like American Restoration, Storage Wars, and Pawn Stars (among others), the timing of Susan Sfarra's documentary feature "The Callers" seems well placed. Set largely within the rural areas of Pennsylvania, the film details the lives of professional auctioneers. I wasn't particularly familiar that this subculture was still so prevalent, so "The Callers" was a fascinating glimpse at an ancient art form and one that may be facing its dying days. Many of the subjects interviewed have the business in their blood and it has been an occupation passed on through the generations. The movie follows several well established individuals and gives us a bit of insight into the allure of the auction. We hear anecdotes from both the professionals and by some who love to participate as customers. Truthfully, there's nothing too deep presented in "The Callers" and much of the film is left to observe auctions in actions. And yet, I still felt the presentation was...



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Master Qi and the Monkey King

Interviews, History And Dazzling Performance Bring The Peking Opera To Life
I have never seen the Peking Opera in person although it is something that has always fascinated me. I have seen it represented in many fictional films, however, and thought that Alan Govenar's new documentary "Master Qi and the Monkey King" might be the perfect way to get a closer look. And I was not disappointed. Combining dance, music, storytelling, acrobatics, and martial arts--the Peking Opera is a feast for the senses. This film tells the story a troupe in New York City led by a stage legend (Master Qi) who emigrated from China to bring this art form to a wider audience. (Quick note: Although set in the United States, the film is almost entirely in subtitles). It's an interesting juxtaposition. In China, Master Qi was famous throughout the land. Here, though, she and her husband live in moderation while financing everything very personally. This shows a real fortitude and commitment that you can't help but respect in the unassuming Qi (she seems much less bold when not...





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