The Frenchy documentary King of Oak Street has, before recent developments, been difficult to see even for those who desperately wanted to. The documentary competed at the 2009 Big Easy Film Festival, where it won best documentary and feature, but has never been available on DVD. Looking online for such a niche feature was useless, so unless you tripped over a print, you were out of luck. It recently became available to rent on the website Prescreen, but even that is only for a limited window, ending in 47 days.
But now, Tipitina’s has stepped in to remedy that minor tragedy. Nancy Romano, General Manager of Tip’s, says, “Andy [Scott, the director] was kind enough to offer part of the proceeds to be donated to the Tipitina’s foundation. He’s a big fan of the foundation, so we’ve joined forces with him to get [King of Oak Street] distributed throughout the city and online. We’re excited. We’ve had other films before behind our merch counter, but this is our first time joining efforts like this. It’s a great film.”
The documentary focuses on New Orleans’ most accomplished “performance painter,” Randy “Frenchy” Frechette. The artist gained a notoriety for painting concerts, Saints games, and other events live and in the moment, usually with a headlamp illuminating his canvas. Romano continued, “I joke with Frenchy: are you sure you want me to premiere this film? Everyone’s going to find out what a nice guy you are [laughs]. He is a very kind and giving soul. I’ve never known Frenchy to say no.” Like the man, Frenchy’s paintings are quintessentially New Orleans: joyous, colorful and utterly unique.
To celebrate the DVD release, Tipitina’s is hosting a free screening this Friday, October 14 at 7 p.m. Romano sums it up nicely: “We’re hoping for a great turnout, admission is free, and the party afterwards couldn’t be a better fit, with Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes and Honey Island Swamp Band. It’s going to be a fun event. Of course, Frenchy will be here painting all throughout the show and screening.”
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xW3SwUytqrY[/youtube]
