Tattoo, The Video

Tired of applying eyeliner every morning? No problem. A tattooist can inksling a permanent black line on your eyelid and even do your lipgloss (if you happen to like only one shade). Formerly consigned to the back alleys, tattooists are now mainstream, with some "skin art" specialists commanding really big bucks to etch a sketch on the back (or backside) of a fan. Tattoo, The Video--like the subject itself--is a combination of serious and sleazy, touching on the 14,000 year-old history of the art, interviewing both the walking canvases about their "tats" and the skin artists who do the work, and visiting conventions and competitions. Viewers who are truly interested in this form of Speedy Gonzales acupuncture will be heartened to learn that safety measures have improved considerably over the years. Too, if you happen to have the name "Donna" prominently displayed on your bicep, but are planning to walk down the matrimonial aisle with "Karen," it's comforting to know that--thanks to laser surgery--tattoos can be removed. On the other hand, the program endlessly hawks other wares and tattoo artists: every interviewee, it seems, gives his address and phone number, including a "Mr. T" who is selling baby snakes (which, aside from inspiration for art, have nothing to do with tattoos, as far as I can tell). The other problem--for some libraries--is a clip from a video on body piercing which shows live footage of a penis ring that, unfortunately, happens to be occupied. An optional purchase for larger alternative collections. (R. Pitman)