Filmmaker John Waters achieved what he calls a “sort-of fame” based on his bad taste and others’ bad reviews. “If someone vomits watching one of my films, it’s like getting a standing ovation, ” he once wrote. Sincerely shameless during the 1970s, when the obscenity of movies such as Pink Flamingos shocked audiences, Waters seems to have softened into his 70s; the latest role in his filmography was a part in Alvin and the Chipmunks. His darkly subversive humor—a lifelong This story is from Kinfolk Issue Thirty Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Films Issue 51 Vicky Krieps An interview with the actor. Films Issue 51 Point of View Filmmaker Garrett Bradley reflects on a corner of her city. Films Issue 50 Sally Potter The film maestro on her musical debut. Films Issue 49 Ruben Östlund Crude, contrary—and killing it: Meet the auteur of awkwardness. Films Issue 49 Mamoudou Athie The shape-shifting actor is on a roll. Films Issue 49 Fares Fares After almost 25 years, the master actor steps behind the camera.
