PODCAST: Best Worst Movie (Michael Paul Stephenson)

From child actor to cinematographer to first-time feature filmmaker, Michael Paul Stephenson reflects back on a now notoriously awful (read: jaw-droppingly enjoyable) movie he starred in as a kid in his entertaining and offfbeat new doc, Best Worst Movie, which opens in NYC this weekend:

In 1989, when an Italian filmmaker and unwitting Utah actors shot the ultra-low budget horror film, Troll 2, they had no idea that twenty years later they would be celebrated worldwide for their legendary ineptitude. Two decades later, the film’s now-grown-up child star (Michael Paul Stephenson) unravels the improbable, heartfelt story of the Alabama dentist-turned-cult movie icon and the Italian filmmaker who come to terms with this genuine, internationally revered cinematic failure. Is Troll 2 really the worst movie ever made, as claimed by IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes? Or is it, as some claim, a misunderstood masterpiece that never fails to entertain… a work of genius? Best Worst Movie explores the phenomenon through the personal story of the cast of characters that took part in its creation and why it is celebrated by fans worldwide.

By phone, I spoke with Stephenson about his personal take on the 20-year incubation of Troll 2's fandom, the power of the collective audience, the cult of anti-celebrity, and parlaying a terrible stain on one's résumé into something positive.

To listen to the podcast, click here. (27:18)

Podcast Music
INTRO: The Shining Path: "Nilbog"
OUTRO: Prewar Yardsale: "Would Ed Wood"

Posted by ahillis at May 10, 2010 1:24 PM