NOVA ’78
Directed by Aaron Brookner and Rodrigo Areias
The past was louder than you think
The Entermedia marquee, 1978 · Courtesy Pinball London
Watch the official trailer.
What the critics said.
★ 8/10
“That we have it at all is a miracle. It is an invaluable document… It's the best kind of time capsule. You can smell it.”
Damien Love, Uncut (8/10)
“Imagine going to a gig where Keith Richards couldn't make it, so Patti Smith stepped up to break the news, read you a poem, offered you your money back, and Frank Zappa filled in instead.”
Damon Wise, Deadline
“More proof that William S. Burroughs was way ahead of anyone else in terms of political futurology.”
Deadline
“The roar of New York in 1978.”
Expresso (Portugal)
Synopsis
Never-before-seen footage from the legendary 1978 Nova Convention.
Directed by Aaron Brookner and Rodrigo Areias.
NOVA ’78 is an electrifying journey into the heart of 1970s counterculture, built around never-before-seen footage from the legendary Nova Convention. This explosive three-day event in New York City celebrated William S. Burroughs’ return to America after living over twenty years in Latin America, North Africa, Paris and London.
It brought together icons such as Patti Smith, Frank Zappa, Laurie Anderson, Philip Glass, Allen Ginsberg, Merce Cunningham, John Cage and many more. A cultural time capsule on the enduring power of creative freedom, the footage captures backstage moments, candid encounters and raw performances at the heart of the downtown scene.
Originally shot on 16mm by filmmaker Howard Brookner and long considered lost, the footage also marked the beginning of his cult classic Burroughs: The Movie. Original score by The Legendary Tigerman.
Film stills.
