Drew: The Man Behind the Poster

Erik P. Sharkey's documentary serves up an affectionate portrait of Drew Struzan, the artist who created the images for posters of such blockbuster films as Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Back to the Future—but whose name remained largely unknown to the millions of kids and college students who hung copies of his work on their bedroom and dormitory walls in the 1970s and '80s. Extensive interviews with Struzan and his wife trace his difficult childhood, academic training, work as a successful cover illustrator for LPs (by bands including the Beach Boys, the Bee Gees, Black Sabbath, Iron Butterfly, and Earth, Wind and Fire), and his career as one of the most sought-after creators of movie-poster art. Other interviewees include actors Harrison Ford and Michael J. Fox, who lavishly praise Struzan's depictions, and even more enthusiastic remarks from filmmakers George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Frank Darabont, and Guillermo del Toro, who bemoan how during the '90s the studios turned to computer manipulation of photos for promo art. In truth, Struzan himself isn't a terribly charismatic presence, and his sleepy manner affects the documentary's pace. Still, as a tip of the hat to one of the most influential—if little-known—figures of American popular culture in the late-20th century, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)