Watch The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg

The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg is a documentary film about the famous Beat poet Allen Ginsberg, directed by Jerry Aronson. The film explores the life and work of the poet, including his early years in New York City, his involvement with the Beat movement, and his later years as a political activist and public figure. The film features interviews with many of Ginsberg's friends and colleagues, as well as archival footage of the poet himself. Through these interviews and archival clips, we learn about Ginsberg's early years as a struggling poet, his friendships with other Beat writers such as Jack Kerouac and William S. Burroughs, and his pivotal role in the countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

One of the central themes of the film is Ginsberg's relationship with his mother, Naomi. The film explores how Naomi's mental illness affected Ginsberg and his work, and how her death inspired some of his most famous poems, such as "Kaddish."

The film also delves into Ginsberg's sexuality, his use of drugs, and his spiritual beliefs. It features interviews with Ginsberg's partners and lovers, as well as discussions of his use of LSD and other drugs. It also explores Ginsberg's lifelong interest in Eastern religion, including his relationship with his guru, Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.

Throughout the film, we see how Ginsberg's work evolved over time, from his early experiments with language and form to his later political and social activism. We learn about his involvement with the anti-war movement, his support for gay rights, and his dedication to preserving the environment.

The film features readings of many of Ginsberg's most famous poems, including "Howl," "A Supermarket in California," and "America." It also includes performances by Ginsberg and his band, the Fugs, as well as rare footage of his appearances on television talk shows and at political rallies.

Overall, The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg is a comprehensive portrait of one of the most important and influential poets of the 20th century. Through its interviews, archival footage, and readings of Ginsberg's work, the film offers a compelling exploration of the poet's life, his work, and his impact on American culture.

The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes.