Mugshot

Directed by Matt Mahurin

Who is the amnesiac white man and how has he ended up in the Harlem? Who is Rumor, the black man with a photographic diary hidden in his seedy room, who discovers the amnesiac and promises assistance, yet keeps him a virtual prisoner? The puzzle grows more complicated when we learn that Rumor has the amnesiac's wallet, and as we watch Rumor explore the man's apartment, photographic darkroom, girlfriend and life.

At times darkly humorous, Mugshot is also profoundly daring. This is a film that examines racial relationships, the stratas between "having it all" and "having nothing," and yet puts a beautiful visual spin on all of it. A compellingly different story and unusual and striking visuals make Mugshot a resonant feature debut.

Mugshot's images are clean, sleek, and carefully composed. No surprise given that writer/director Matt Mahurin started as a photographer who credits include two books of stills, many magazine covers, several photographs in museum collections, and one of the most distinctive music video resumes in the industry.

1996, 35mm, Color, 87 Minutes

Producers: Louise Feldman, Sharon Oreck
Cinematographer, Editor, Screenwriter: Matt Mahurin
Music: Michael Montes
Cast: Michael K. Williams, Robert Knepper, Belinda Becker