Vernon, Florida

Vernon, Florida is a 1981 classic documentary film directed by the renowned documentary filmmaker Errol Morris. Starring Albert Bitterling, Roscoe Collins, and George Harris, this film is an engaging exploration of the eccentricities of human nature, particularly those within an offbeat rural community of Vernon, Florida, an eccentric southern town.

The film does not adhere to the typical norms of linear plotlines or narrative structure. Instead, it opts for a more episodic format. At its core, it is a collection of intertwined character studies, carefully stitched together to provide audiences with a glimpse into a universe where the bizarre and mundane comfortably coexist.

Morris masterfully uses his cinematic lens to breathe life into the world of Vernon, a small town that teeters on the edge of absurdity but remains endearing throughout. The town, located in the panhandle of Florida, is populated by a roster of quirky and unusual characters, each more eccentric than the last. Albert Bitterling, Roscoe Collins, and George Harris, each play themselves, and gracefully embrace these roles, portraying their alter-egos with authenticity.

The film begins with a gentle unfolding, introducing viewers to the idyllic landscapes and warm community spirit of Vernon. With sweeping scenes of the town's picturesque beauty contrasted against its anomaly of an insurance scheme involving self-amputation, Morris immediately sets the tone for a film that's both captivatingly real and humorously surreal.

The backbone of Vernon, Florida is its residents, who bring a distinctive flavor to the film. These candid and quirky townsfolk, like turkey hunter Albert Bitterling and sermonizing preacher Roscoe Collins, seem straight from the pages of a Mark Twain novel. Each relishes in sharing their unique worldview with Morris, thus the camera, and ultimately, the audience, imbuing the documentary with a sense of charm and wit.

George Harris's scenes as a fervent observer of wild turkeys are particularly memorable. His monologues, paired with the visuals of the seemingly banal pursuit of turkey hunting, are a testimony to Morris's skill in encapsulating the essence of the ordinary and projecting it into the realm of the extraordinary.

The pace of Vernon, Florida is deliberately designed to mirror the languid, unhurried rhythm of life in the rural south. There’s no urgent plot to race through, no villains to defeat or adversities to overcome. Instead, the film simply presents a slice of life in a world that feels slightly askew, yet charmingly so.

The documentary style of Morris departs from sensationalism or excess drama. Instead, he remains a quiet observer, allowing the lives of the town's residents to unfold on their own without any intrusive direction. Even when the subjects of his work tread into fields that might be perceived as strange or peculiar, Morris's lens remains respectful and non-judgmental.

Symbolism and subtext permeate Vernon, Florida. Morris subtly draws attention to the profound in the ordinary and the extraordinary in the mundane. With its focus on eccentric characters espousing their colorful philosophies, Vernon, Florida challenges viewers to reevaluate their perceptions of normality. By emphasizing the beauty in simplicity, it presents a compelling argument that it is the intricacies of human nature that make us interesting and adds color to life.

The cinematography of Vernon, Florida is remarkable, employing long, sweeping shots to capture the serene and rustic charm of the town. These visuals work in harmony with the residents' anecdotes and philosophies, building a surreal, almost dreamlike atmosphere.

Whimsical yet thought-provoking, Vernon, Florida is a testament to Errol Morris's ability to capture the complex essence of human nature. It’s an unforgettable dive into the intricacies and eccentricities that define us, making it an essential viewing for fans of documentary cinema. All said and done, it's a film that creates an authentic atmosphere of genuine laughter, reflection, and an uncanny sense of identification with the endearing oddballs of Vernon, Florida.