With Pecker, Waters keeps artists in line

John Waters' Pecker is a sharp and pointed comedy which captures the innumerable contradictions and general ridiculousness of, among other things, the art world, fame and white trash chic. The film follows Pecker (played by Edward Furlong), a blissful amateur photographer discovered in his hometown of Hampden, Baltimore, as he becomes an overnight success.

What makes the film interesting and enjoyable is its playful attitude. Waters' genius is that he can make anyone-even lesbian strippers-seem plucky and lighthearted. His leveling eye turns everything into humor, and somehow it all works.

Waters is at the top of his form here; it's the perfect subject matter for him. Pecker should be seen by every art major at Oberlin and anyone else that takes themselves too seriously. The film is loads of fun and the soundtrack is fantastic. Edward Furlong, who has never before been very impressive, works wonderfully in Waters' hands as do Christina Ricci, Martha Plimpton and Lili Taylor, who round out the cast.

Pecker is playing at The Cedar Lee in Cleveland Heights.