Disfarmer: A Portrait of America 2010
Step into the gritty world of 1930s America with *Disfarmer: A Portrait of America* (2010), a compelling documentary directed by Martin Lavut that uncovers the extraordinary life of Mike Disfarmer.
Director: Martin Lavut
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Disfarmer: A Portrait of America (2010) about?
This 52-minute documentary follows Mike Disfarmer, a reclusive portrait photographer from a small Arkansas town whose stark, emotionally charged images of Depression-era America later captivated the New York art scene. The film explores his transformation from an overlooked curmudgeon into a posthumous icon, highlighting how his work bridged the divide between rural hardship and urban sophistication.
Who directed Disfarmer: A Portrait of America?
The documentary was directed by Martin Lavut, who crafts a visually rich and thematically layered portrait of Disfarmer's life and legacy.
Who stars in Disfarmer: A Portrait of America?
Director Martin Lavut takes center stage in this documentary, weaving together archival footage and expert commentary to bring Disfarmer's story to life.
Is Disfarmer: A Portrait of America (2010) worth watching?
Absolutely—this documentary packs a punch in just 52 minutes, offering a fascinating dive into art history and a compelling underdog story. Its focus on Disfarmer's unique perspective and the unexpected path of his work makes it a standout entry in the genre, well worth your time whether you're an art lover or a history buff.
How long is Disfarmer: A Portrait of America?
The runtime is 52 minutes.
Disfarmer: A Portrait of America (2010) — How one photographer's forgotten images became modern art treasures
Step into the gritty world of 1930s America with *Disfarmer: A Portrait of America* (2010), a compelling documentary directed by Martin Lavut that uncovers the extraordinary life of Mike Disfarmer. This Arkansas-born portrait photographer, a reclusive eccentric with a knack for capturing raw emotion, created haunting images of everyday people that would later transform him into an unlikely art-world legend. Lavut's film explores Disfarmer's journey from a misunderstood small-town outsider to a celebrated figure in Manhattan's highbrow art scene, blending themes of isolation, artistic discovery, and the power of a singular vision. The documentary immerses viewers in the visual and cultural legacy of a man whose work defied expectations and bridged the gap between rural simplicity and urban sophistication.
With a runtime of just 52 minutes, this short but impactful film doesn't just recount Disfarmer's story—it invites audiences to reflect on how art can transcend time and place. Lavut crafts an atmosphere that's equal parts melancholic and mesmerizing, pairing archival footage with insightful commentary to paint a vivid portrait of an America both familiar and forgotten. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a casual viewer, *Disfarmer: A Portrait of America* offers a unique glimpse into the life of a man who turned everyday faces into timeless art.