The Sundance Struggle of Wendell B. Harris Jr.’s Sensational Con Artist Story
In 1989, writer-director-actor Wendell B. Harris Jr. crafted a stunning debut feature, Chameleon Street, based on the incredible true story of con artist William Douglas Street Jr. Despite winning the Grand Jury Prize at the 1990 Sundance Film Festival, Harris faced immense difficulties securing distribution for his groundbreaking film. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Chameleon Street.
Unraveling the Layers of a Chameleon’s Tale
Throughout our discussion, we dive into the fascinating layers of Chameleon Street, from its energetic and in-your-face production style to the subversive commentary on race and identity. We explore how Harris Jr. taps into the con artist’s perspective, using voiceover narration and camera techniques to create a thrilling cinematic experience that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
As part of our One-and-Done series, we also delve into the unfortunate reality of Harris Jr.’s struggle to make more films after this impressive debut. Despite his undeniable talent and the film’s critical acclaim, the Hollywood system failed to provide him with the opportunities he deserved.
Unpacking the Complexities of Identity and Representation
- The film’s thought-provoking exploration of race and the challenges faced by a black man navigating various roles in society
- Harris Jr.’s masterful performance as William Douglas Street Jr., showcasing the con artist’s chameleon-like abilities
- The movie’s subversive humor and biting social commentary, particularly in scenes where Street Jr. openly insults his unsuspecting targets
- The film’s propulsive narrative structure, which keeps the audience engaged as the protagonist moves from one audacious scheme to another
A One-and-Done Wonder Worth Rediscovering
Chameleon Street is a testament to Wendell B. Harris Jr.’s immense talent as a filmmaker and storyteller. Through his deft handling of the subject matter and innovative storytelling techniques, Harris Jr. crafts a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of identity, race, and the art of the con. While it’s disheartening that he never had the chance to make another feature film, Chameleon Street remains a powerful and essential piece of cinema that deserves to be celebrated and rediscovered by audiences today. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
- Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- Theatrical trailer
- Letterboxd
