Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story (1987)

[simonella]

This was a film made by Todd Haynes (Far From Heaven, Velvet Goldmine)  which, obviously, told the story of Karen Carpenters (controlled) life and death. The whole thing was done using Barbie dolls and was banned by Richard Carpenter (for using songs without permission) and Mattell (for using the dolls without permission!!!). Further details are available on IMDb.

However, bootleg copies were distributed. Does anyone know where I can get hold of a copy, either VHS, DVD or download?

Many thanks in advance XXX

[flashpig]

Unless you can find it using download things like Kazaa or BitTorrent  I recommnd you find a decent comic book & other such junk shop an talk to the shopkeeper. These people thrive on the hard-to-get and will certainly have heard of it, might have seen it or know someone who has, and if so will almost certainly be able to get a copy for you.

These people have absolutely no regard for copyright law, and probably not much more for Richard Carpenter and Mattell. They only care about first and rare issues in excellent condition and if a copy can be got they will get it for only a small fee.

Also you could write to Todd Haynes himself. I have no idea how you would do this. Some artists who have hard to get material sometimes will sell on their films, although at astronomical prices, but I am thinking of video artists rather than filmmakers.

Good luck. I've been interested in this film for a while, although I haven't tried to seek it out myself.

[THECORBYLOON]

go to http://www.illegal-art.org/video/popups/superstar.html

[flashpig]

Wow, thank you also.

As I said, I couldn't be bothered to seek it out, but as the link has been provided I am very happy to satisfy the interest.