Better Things: The Life and Choices of Jeffrey Catherine Jones

Maria Paz Cabardo's biographical documentary combines interview excerpts, artwork, and archival material to provide an insightful sketch of renowned comic book illustrator Jeffrey Catherine Jones (1944-2011), who marched to his (later her) own drummer both personally and professionally. Much of the presentation consists of an extraordinarily revealing autobiographical conversation with Jones (illustrated with stills) that covers his childhood, education, career choices, and relationships. Jones' reminiscences are interwoven with recollections from an array of admiring colleagues, including some with whom he famously shared space in a Manhattan studio in the 1970s. Examples of his unique fantasy artwork—both comic covers and standalone paintings—provide further context. Contributions from Jones' ex-wife and daughter, along with the son of short-lived fellow artist Vaughn Bode, delve into major aspects of Jones' personal life, including his relationship with Bode, long-time transvestitism, and ultimate decision to undergo hormone replacement therapy. Jones' later years (which included a nervous breakdown) are treated somewhat perfunctorily, but Better Things closes with poignant remarks from an obviously frail Jones about coming to terms with death—comments that serve as a fitting conclusion to this touching portrait of a complex, troubled, but undoubtedly talented human being. Especially for stronger American art collections, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)