Plastic Man: The Artful Life of Jerry Ross Barrish

Overview

Jerry Ross Barrish transforms discarded materials into striking art, showcasing beauty in the overlooked. A son of Jewish immigrants with ties to crime, he spent five decades as a bail bondsman, often assisting radical activists. His unexpected journey into filmmaking garnered recognition, including the New Director award from the Museum of Modern Art and several European accolades. A beach cleanup sparked his passion for sculpture, but despite critical acclaim, commercial success eluded him for years. At 75, Barrish's unique creations are finally gaining the attention they deserve in William Farley’s captivating documentary, revealing the essence of life in artificial forms.