'Dumbstruck' delves into the world of ventriloquism I t is populated with a varied group of log huggers who run the gamut of age, lifestyles, social standing and success in their chosen field. The things they all have in common is the hard work ethic, commitment to their craft and mutual compassion and support. Their annual convention is more like a family reunion sans any competitive edge or outright envy. 'We all talk to ourselves and play with dolls.'
Documentarian Mark Goffman selects five practitioners of diverse standing in the field -- from 13 year old Dylan, still shy and unpracticed, but adamant in his dream even in the face of his father's efforts to make him an athlete, to Terry Fator, winner of America's Got Talent and Las Vegas headliner who is the biggest money earner on the Strip. Along the way, we learn about the ventriloquism employment options -- Wilma plays to geriatrics in an almost empty room and may be losing her home to the Sheriff; Kim does the school circuit though her mother dreams of her beauty queen past and of her finally starting a family of her own; Dan lives a life of luxury as a cruise ship entertainer at the cost of being with his family.
'Dumbstruck' is required viewing for anyone considering a career in ventriloquism. It's also a fascinating inside look at the comics who let their wooden alter egos get credit for the best jokes. I like these people. They all had to buck their families who unanimously frowned upon their choices -- even success won't change their opinion. None of these five vents seem to have been psychologically damaged due to their families' lack of support and even hostile rejection. No split personalities, no belief that the puppets are alive, no 'Twilight Zone' (Cliff Robertson 1962) (Jackie Cooper 1964, 'Magic' (Anthony Hopkins 1978), 'Dead Silence' (2007), Buffy the 'Vampire Slayer's'episode 'The Puppet Show,' or other supernatural episodes in which the puppet is in control. No matter. It's a fun, insightful look into a group of people with the common goal of making people laugh at their arms.
Dumbstruck
Director: Mark Goffman
Cast: Terry Fator, Kim Yeager, Dylan Burdette, Wilma Swartz, Dan Horn
Time: 84 min
Rated: PG
Opening June 3 at the Opera Plaza in San Francisco
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