Audio By Carbonatix
Keep Dallas Observer Free
We’re aiming to raise $10,000 by April 26. Your support ensures Dallas Observer can continue watching out for you and our community. No paywall. Always accessible. Daily online and weekly in print.
They’re going fast, but you can still snag tickets to see Bill Cosby on June 8th at the Winspear Opera House. I don’t need to give you a bio about this man; he revolutionized comedy — you know who he is. Instead, let’s watch this short art film titled “Gesticulations of an American Icon.”
I caught this during a film festival at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Miami many years ago, and I just love it. By removing Cosby’s words and splicing together his sound effects and physical comedy motions, filmmaker Nelson Hallonquist reminds us that some actors tell stories. Others, like Cosby, squeeze every last drip of expression out of an idea while presenting it to an audience. It’s in those extra gasps, gurgles and exhales that Cosby transcends the rest, establishing himself as one of the world’s greatest storytellers. Plus, he rocks a mean sweater.
Follow the Mixmaster on Twitter and Facebook.
