A LONG HARD STREAK

A film by Scott Rabideau
2024, 79 minutes
No. 430
Documentary


A LONG HARD STREAK
$375.00
Description
Billy Dean Anderson was a prolific outsider artist and criminal who escaped prison multiple times. He was added to the FBI's Ten Most Wanted List and fled to live in a Tennessee cave for almost five years. The cave became his home and spiritual refuge, while his paintings were a means of communication with the outside world.

This is a story of the struggle for redemption through art, and a man's powerful legacy within an isolated community of the South.

Reviews
"The documentary does a lovely job of giving us a snapshot of Appalachian hill culture while telling this unusual story of a man who seems both a hardened criminal and a soft-hearted artist and lover of nature. This film could support studies in art history, particularly folk art, as well as studies of American cultures. Criminal justice classes may also find the film beneficial in its commentary on this historic crime as well as local law enforcement of the time, with its questionable tactics and use of power. It is recommended for a high school to general audience." - EMRO