Forced Perspective: The Story of Artist Derek Hess

Cleveland poster artist Derek Hess is the subject of Nick Cavalier's documentary profile, which takes on an increasingly autobiographical tone as Hess talks about his life and career in extended interview excerpts. Hess's recollections cover his childhood fascination with comic-book illustrators such as Gil Kane (whose work introduced Hess to his favorite technique of forced perspective, which emphasizes an object by increasing its size relative to others surrounding it) and his early studies with, among others, his father (a teacher of industrial design). Hess created posters and promo materials for bands he encountered at a bar where he worked in Cleveland—efforts that not only gained him recognition in the music scene but also led him to produce work for galleries and museums, as well as designs for a clothing line. On the more personal side, Hess offers frank observations about his struggles with bipolar disorder and alcoholism. His remarks throughout are supplemented by well-chosen examples of his artwork, along with interviews with friends, colleagues and admirers, who not only comment enthusiastically on Hess's talent but also talk candidly about how the artist's medical problems have impacted his productivity. An insightful portrait of a man who has overcome major obstacles to create a body of work that is widely recognized as exceptional in his field, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)