Folsom Forever

"Folsom Forever" is an informative documentary about the origins and political ramifications of San Francisco's Folsom Street Fair. The popular event has evolved significantly from its roots as a response to gentrification. It's been tied to HIV prevention, sexual expression, San Francisco tourism, and even the debate of public indecency. The film gives an even and straightforward look at the festival's history, organization, and effect on the The Golden City.

The Folsom Street Fair has become synonymous with sex. It celebrates sexual liberation and freedom. It draws tons of BDSM enthusiasts. It has tons of public nudity...and occasionally sex. But it also is a major charitable organization. It uses its profits to fund a lot of valuable organizations around San Francisco. This documentary includes insight into the way the organization is run and how it grew from a small one block fair into a standing room only international draw.

The film includes interviews with people on all sides of Folsom. Members of the event staff, BDSM enthusiasts, anthropologists, San Francisco locals and even people who were part of the history of the event. Folsom evolved from a response to the quickly gentrifying areas to a promotion of safe sex during the AIDS crisis. Now it's become a beacon for people throughout the LGBTQ and BDSM communities to celebrate their freedom. The risqu� nature is a draw for looky-loos and die-hard fan boys. The event is facilitated by volunteers and the widely popular Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

The film is balanced and does convey a lot of important facts and the genuine undiluted history of this event. It also provides a balanced debate about a few of the issues affecting the festival and the San Francisco government. However, it does feel a little dry. It includes the requisite attendee shots of nudity and provides the same voyeuristic appeal of the event itself. However, the documentary is a tad bit dry. It's balanced, informative, and historically compelling. But the delivery system is a bit flat. The filming and editing could have used a little finesse.

Ultimately, "Folsom Forever" includes some interesting facts about an important part of queer and San Francisco history. It can be a bit bland but that is while including a lot of substance and significant moments. But it could have used a bit of finesse and excitement. But, by not sensationalizing anything it did provide an outlet for some really valuable history and cultural commentary. It's definitely worth investigating to learn more about an important part of queer history.

Folsom Forever
DVD
$19.95
folsomforever.com/