Along Came Kinky … Texas Jewboy for Governor

Documentary Feature, Lone Star States
D: David Hartstein

This is a must-see for political junkies and should be required viewing for aspiring candidates of all stripes. Austin filmmaker Hartstein takes us on an illuminating ride on the Kinky trail, where we see a much more personal side to the musician/author than the irreverent media sensation who genuinely believes he can break Texas’ two-party mold by running – and winning – as an independent. After securing a spot on the ballot (with more than double the number of voter signatures required of indie hopefuls), it’s all downhill: He’s “tired and grumpy,” his jokes grow stale, he’s unfairly branded a racist based on decades-old comedy material, and he’s a complete flop at the gubernatorial debates. Of course, voters want more than talk from a “change” candidate, and on that score, Kinky failed to deliver. Fortunately, this film delivers a fresh perspective of Kinky and his dedicated quest to turn Texas politics-as-usual on its ear. He promises a return engagement in 2010.

Thursday, March 19, 7:30pm, Paramount

This article appears in March 20 • 2009.

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Amy Smith has been writing about Austin policy and politics for over 20 years. She joined The Austin Chronicle in 1996.