Watch $100 & A T-Shirt: A Documentary About Zines In The Northwest

$100 & A T-Shirt: A Documentary About Zines In The Northwest is a 2004 independent documentary film that takes an in-depth look into the world of zine-making in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Directed by Joe Biel and featuring Jon Van Oast as the host and narrator, the film explores the unique culture surrounding the production and consumption of zines in the region.

The film provides a comprehensive overview of the history of zines and their evolution from a DIY (do-it-yourself) underground publishing movement in the 1970s and 80s to a vibrant and thriving subculture during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Through interviews with various zine-makers, the film delves into the motivations behind their creative pursuits and the impact that their work has on society.

Throughout the documentary, viewers are introduced to a diverse array of zine-makers representing a wide range of topics and viewpoints. From political activism to personal narrative to humor to community organizing, the film showcases the incredible breadth and depth of zine culture in the Pacific Northwest. Some of the featured zine-makers include Shoshana Gugenheim, founder of the Olympia Zine Library; Ray Suburbia, creator of the "Factsheet Five" zine review; and Cindy Crabb, editor of the feminist zine "Doris."

In addition to providing a fascinating glimpse into the world of zines, $100 & A T-Shirt also highlights the important role that zines play in promoting freedom of expression and voice for marginalized communities. By providing a platform for emerging writers, artists, and activists to share their perspectives on a wide range of social issues, zines have become an important tool for social justice and advocacy.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its focus on the unique community and collaborative ethos surrounding zine-making. The film features numerous scenes of zine-makers coming together at zine fairs, events, and workshops to share their work and support one another. This sense of mutual support is emphasized throughout the film as a key factor in the sustainability and longevity of the zine scene.

Throughout the film, Jon Van Oast provides thoughtful commentary on the significance of zines as a medium for creative expression and the importance of grassroots organizing and DIY culture in fostering social change. Van Oast's narration is both informative and engaging, providing a coherent structure to the complex and multifaceted world of zines.

Overall, $100 & A T-Shirt is a compelling and insightful documentary that provides a unique perspective on the world of zine culture and the important role that zines play in promoting social justice and artistic expression. Whether you are a seasoned zine-maker or simply curious about the DIY publishing movement, this film is sure to provide an informative and engaging look into this fascinating subculture.

$100 & A T-Shirt: A Documentary About Zines In The Northwest is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 50 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.