Mayor Of The Sunset Strip

The diminutive, slightly androgynous Rodney Bigenheimer is the ultimate product of pop culture celebrity. Rather than rising to acclaim on the basis of his artistic talent, Bigenheimer is the ultimate fan, a groupie who helps launch others to the top of the charts.

Director George Hickenlooper ("Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse") initially introduces Rodney in a comical way, as we watch him cavort with Sonny and Cher and David Bowie. We also examine his many friendships with various pop stars, plus the dark and foreboding presence of his friend, musician Kim Fowley, cast as Rodney's doppleganger. By the time Hickenlooper looks into Rodney's personal life with his family, where he comes across as the invisible man, or hidden away as a DJ on the midnight shift of a top Los Angeles radio station, the story starts achieving a sad and profound psychological dimension. "Mayor of the Sunset Strip" is a fascinating and rather wistful examination of a man-child who achieves stardom in the shadows. Featuring Rodney Bigenheimer, David Bowie, Courtney Love, Joan Jett, Mick Jagger and Nancy Sinatra. Directed and written by George Hickenlooper. Produced by Chris Carter, Greg Little and Tommy Perna. A First Look release. Documentary. Not yet rated. Running time: 94 min