'The Last of the American Hoboes' Movie Reviews and Commentary

May 14
21:06

2024

Gary Revel

Gary Revel

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If you've ever wanted an intimate glimpse into the lives of real-life hoboes and their stories, "The Last of the American Hoboes" is a rare gem that offers just that. This documentary-style film delves into the history of hoboes, from their origins during the Great Depression to their unique culture and symbols. Featuring a rich soundtrack and compelling narratives, this movie is both a historical document and a collectible treasure.

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Behind the Scenes: Collaborating with Titus Moody

I had the privilege of working closely with Titus Moody on the creation of "The Last of the American Hoboes." Recently,'The Last of the American Hoboes' Movie Reviews and Commentary Articles I stumbled upon several online reviews of the film. While some reviews were flattering and mentioned my early work in the music industry, others contained inaccuracies. For instance, the film was not released in the late 1970s but rather around 1971 or 1972. Below, I present a composite of these reviews, corrected for misspellings and factual errors. I have attempted to contact the original posters but have yet to receive a response. Given that these reviews pertain to my work, I believe I have the right to comment on them.

A Journey Through Hobo History

The Great Depression and the Rise of Hoboes

The film provides a historical overview of hoboes, tracing their origins back to the Great Depression. During this period, many people took to riding the rails in search of work. Hoboes developed a unique system of symbols to communicate with each other, marking houses that were friendly to their kind.

Hal Jon Norman: A Tragic Tale

One of the most compelling stories in the film is that of Hal Jon Norman, an actor who lost his leg while attempting to jump onto a moving train as a youth. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers and hardships faced by hoboes.

The Soundtrack: A Musical Journey

Featured Artists and Tracks

The film's soundtrack, produced by Juddy Phillips, is a standout feature. The best track, "Like A Hobo Should" by Gary Revel, is accompanied by songs from The Chapparral Brothers, Wayne Storm, and Brian Mark. The soundtrack also includes authentic sounds from the street and hobo jungles, contributed by Hobo Actor Journalist The Nobel 'Kid' Chissel, Mike DeTemple, and The Salvation Army Band.

A Collectible Treasure

The soundtrack album, with cover photography by Ken Berg, is a unique collectible. The album cover folds out and is a piece of art in its own right. Inside, it credits Gary Revel for writing and performing on about half of the tracks. The album is a testament to the collaborative effort behind the film, described as "A Judy Russell Gary Revel Byron Spears Movement."

Premiere and Reception

The Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa

The movie premiered in the early 1970s at the Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. This annual event celebrates hobo culture and history, making it a fitting venue for the film's debut. The convention continues to be a significant cultural event, drawing hoboes and enthusiasts from across the country.

Audience Reactions

The film has been described as both enjoyable and entertaining. It offers a rare and authentic look into the lives of hoboes, making it a valuable historical document. The film's unique storytelling approach and rich soundtrack have made it a collectible item for those interested in hobo culture.

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • Hobo Symbols: Hoboes used a system of symbols to communicate with each other. For example, a circle with two parallel arrows meant "Get out fast," while a smiling cat indicated a "Kind-hearted woman" lived there (source).
  • Hobo Population: During the Great Depression, it is estimated that up to 250,000 teenagers were living as hoboes, riding the rails in search of work (source).
  • Hobo Convention: The National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa, has been held annually since 1900, making it one of the longest-running cultural events in the United States (source).

Conclusion

"The Last of the American Hoboes" is more than just a film; it's a historical document that captures the essence of hobo culture. From its compelling narratives to its rich soundtrack, the film offers a unique and authentic look into a bygone era. Whether you're a history buff or a music enthusiast, this film is a must-watch.

For more information on hobo culture and history, you can visit the Smithsonian Magazine and History.com.