Watch Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection

Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection is a documentary film from 2017 that showcases one man's lifetime collection of rare and unique postage stamps. The film is directed by David Katz and features interviews with the collector himself, Irwin Weinberg, as well as others in the philatelic community. The film opens with Weinberg taking viewers on a tour of his extensive collection of stamps. He explains that his fascination with stamps began at a young age, and over the years he has amassed a collection that spans the globe and includes some of the most rare and valuable stamps in existence. Throughout the film, viewers are treated to close-up shots of these stamps, showcasing the intricate designs and details that make them so unique.

As the documentary progresses, Weinberg and other experts in the field discuss the history of stamp collecting and the role that these small pieces of paper have played in shaping the world. From the earliest days of mail delivery to the present day, stamps have served as a way to communicate with others and to mark historical moments. In fact, some of the stamps featured in Weinberg's collection commemorate major events such as the moon landing and the Olympics.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is the way it explores the errors and anomalies that can occur during the stamp printing process. Weinberg has a particular affinity for these freaks and errors, which can be worth thousands of dollars to collectors. The film includes examples of stamps with misprints, inverted designs, and other unusual characteristics that make them truly one-of-a-kind.

In addition to showcasing Weinberg's collection, the documentary also highlights the community of stamp collectors and the passion that drives them. Viewers hear from other stamp enthusiasts, including Doug Weisz and Jim Forte, who discuss what drew them to the hobby and share stories about their own collections. It's clear that for these individuals, collecting stamps is more than just a hobby – it's a way to connect with history and with others who share their love for these unique artifacts.

Despite its niche subject matter, Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection manages to be both informative and engaging. The film is beautifully shot, with close-up shots of the stamps that allow viewers to appreciate their intricate designs and details. The interviews with Weinberg and others are well-conducted, providing insight into the world of philately and the passion that drives collectors. Additionally, the film provides historical context for the stamps in Weinberg's collection, highlighting how they are not just items of curiosity but also symbols of historical events and moments.

One of the strengths of Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection is its ability to make a seemingly obscure subject accessible to a wider audience. While some viewers may not have an interest in stamp collecting specifically, the film touches on broader themes such as the importance of preserving history and the ways in which seemingly insignificant objects can hold great value. At its core, the documentary is about the human impulse to collect and the ways in which this impulse can manifest in surprising and fascinating ways.

Overall, Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection is an engaging and informative documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in history, art, or collecting. Through its exploration of the world of philately, the film celebrates the beauty and uniqueness of stamps while also highlighting the importance of preserving history and the character of those who are driven to do so.

Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.