Watch Billy Collins: On the Road with the Poet Laureate

Billy Collins: On the Road with the Poet Laureate is a documentary film from 2003 that follows former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins as he travels the country giving readings and interviews. The film takes audiences behind the scenes of Collins' life as he visits bookstores, schools, and libraries across the country, sharing his poetry and discussing his love for the art form. Through intimate interviews with Collins, viewers get a glimpse into the mind of one of the most acclaimed contemporary poets.

However, the movie is not just about Collins' poetry. It also sheds light on Collins' life and how he became a poet. Viewers hear about his childhood, his early love of reading, and some of the experiences that shaped his writing.

Throughout the movie, Collins' wit and humor shine through. He is an engaging and entertaining speaker, and viewers will find themselves laughing along with his anecdotes and musings. Collins is also unafraid to be introspective and honest, sharing his own struggles with writing and his own personal shortcomings.

The film includes footage of several of Collins' readings, as well as interviews with fans and fellow poets who discuss Collins' impact on the poetry world. In one particularly poignant moment, Collins reads his poem "The Names," which is a response to the September 11th attacks. The poem is both haunting and beautiful, and it is a reminder of the power of poetry to capture the human experience.

Throughout the movie, viewers are treated to stunning shots of the American landscape, capturing the beauty and diversity of Collins' travels. These shots provide a visual backdrop to Collins' words, highlighting the connection between poetry and the world around us.

Billy Collins: On the Road with the Poet Laureate is a captivating look at the life and work of one of America's most beloved poets. Whether you are a fan of poetry or simply appreciate a good story, this documentary is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Billy Collins: On the Road with the Poet Laureate is a 2003 documentary with a runtime of 58 minutes.