Born in Flames

Part manifesto, part indulgent feminist fantasy, Born in Flames is a Lizzie Borden radical rant fest. Originally made in 1983, "10 years after the Second American Revolution," this film tells the story of Adelaide Norris, the black revolutionary founder of a fictitious Women's Army. This cool liberation diva sets out to unite disenfranchised women of all races, classes and schools of sexual preferences. A rainbow of women activists take to the streets, take up arms and take out a few men, setting off a veritable war when Norris is mysteriously murdered. Shot documentary style, Born in Flames is a rebellious fantasy that takes itself too seriously. Statements about gender relations and the on-going fight for equal rights sound dated, and as a result, come off as campy. While some of the pro-female sentiments are just, the film as a whole is laughable; a historic work of feminist kitsch. Not recommended. (A. Glover)[DVD Review--June 27, 2006--First Run, 80 min., not rated, $24.95--Making its first appearance on DVD, 1983's Born In Flames sports a mediocre transfer. DVD extras include a DVD-ROM-accessible 1983 interview with director Lizzie Borden in PDF format, and trailers. Bottom line: a paltry extras package for a forgettable film.]