Watch Circus Kid

Circus Kid is a 2016 documentary film by Lorenzo Pisoni that follows the life and career of the filmmaker, who grew up as a performer in San Francisco's renowned Pickle Family Circus. The movie provides an in-depth look into a life lived in the circus that many people may not have had the chance to witness before. The film opens with a brief introduction to Lorenzo Pisoni and then takes us back to his childhood memories of growing up in the circus. We see him and his family traveling across the country, performing in packed tents and theaters, and living a unique and unconventional life. Throughout the movie, we learn about the joys and struggles that come with being a performing artist in a family-owned circus.

The movie also features interviews with other members of the Pickle Family Circus, such as co-founders Larry Pisoni and Bill Irwin, as well as longtime performer Geoff Hoyle. These individuals offer valuable insight into the workings of a circus and the struggles that come with it, from the physical toll on their bodies to the financial struggles of running a small business.

We also get to witness the close-knit relationships and the unique way of life that the Pickle Family Circus fostered. It is clear that the performers were not just colleagues but family, with Larry Pisoni referring to the group as a "tribe." Throughout the movie, we see the bonds that were formed and how they helped each other through the tragedies and hardships that come with running a circus.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the footage of the Pickle Family Circus's performances. The documentary features footage from various performances in the 1980s and '90s, showcasing the troupe's acrobatics, clowning, juggling and other performances. The performances are truly impressive and give viewers a glimpse into the world of circus performance.

Overall, Circus Kid is a fascinating documentary that offers a unique look at a way of life that is not well-known. It is inspiring to witness the dedication and passion of the performers, and to learn about the lineage of a family circus from generation to generation. The movie provides insights into the struggles that come with being a part of a circus, such as the toll it takes on performers' bodies or the financial burden that running a circus can be. But it also highlights the camaraderie and support that comes with being part of a family, whatever unique circumstances that family may have. Circus Kid serves as a testimony to the magic of the circus and the people who make it happen, as well as a reminder of why it is an important and fascinating part of our cultural history.

In conclusion, if you have ever been fascinated by the circus, this documentary is definitely worth checking out. Circus Kid is a touching, insightful, and captivating film that is sure to leave you feeling inspired and informed about a way of life that is not often discussed in mainstream media.

Circus Kid is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.