Don't Take The Colors Apart > Comments > "Review of Don't Take The Colors Apart"
Piece Comment
Commenter Profile
- Eric Nuzum
- Username: ericnuzum
- Location: Washington, District of Columbia
- Joined PRX: Sep 06, 2003
Piece Information
- "Don't Take The Colors Apart"
- Summary: Amerasian Playwright Velina Hasu Houston learned early on to have pride in her identity through her African American father and Japanese mother.
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Review of Don't Take The Colors Apart
Eric Nuzum
Posted on June 27, 2004 at 11:26 AM
The documentary profiles the life of Venila Hasu Houston, whose ethnicity is African-America, Japanese, and Native American. What makes this documentary interesting is it explores the stories, complexities, and emotions behind her unique mixture of DNA.
First, the documentary details her families history: how her parents met, their life in Junction City, Kansas, and the peculiarities of growing up with the product of such a unique cultural mix. Just this section alone justifies a listen.
Then, as the story evolves and takes on additional depth and color, the story is partially told through readings of Houston's poetry and plays. These readings are woven with interview segments and narration. It sounds like a lot--but it works. It works well.
Additionally, the documentary has a great sense of craft. It is meticulously recorded, edited, and produced. It is 26 minutes, but feels like it lasts about five.
Wonderful work.