The Collector of Bedford Street 2001
Distributed by New Day Films, 190 Route 17M, P.O. Box 1084, Harriman, NY 10926; 888-367-9154 or 845-774-7051
Produced by Alice Elliott
Directed by Alice Elliott
VHS, color, 34 min.
College - Adult
Disability Studies, Social Work
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Maureen Puffer-Rothenberg, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GAThe Collector of Bedford Street tells the story of a developmentally disabled man and the neighbors who value him as an asset to their community. Larry Selman lives across the street from filmmaker Alice Elliott in New York City’s Greenwich Village. He spends his days “collecting” contributions from passers-by, raising several thousand dollars each year for various charitable organizations.
Although Larry has an apartment of his own he cannot live independently; his elderly Uncle Murray assists him in variety of ways. Realizing that Murray cannot continue to care for Larry, Elliott organizes the neighborhood block association to establish an Adult Supplemental Needs trust fund that will guarantee Larry financial security in addition to medical and social services.
Elliott’s multi-faceted portrait goes beyond Larry’s daily activities and the fact that his neighbors have united to ensure he receives ongoing, appropriate care. The film explores Larry’s family history and follows his sincerely awkward romance with a developmentally disabled woman. Larry also talks about his spiritual beliefs, occasional suicidal feelings, and his struggle to cope with loneliness.
Larry obviously enjoyed participating in the project and often speaks naturally into Elliott’s camera. Visiting his parents’ graves, he invites a passing rabbi to say a prayer, and then quietly asks Elliott if the rabbi signed a release. Scene transitions are punctuated with recorded phone messages Larry has left for Elliott (most of the neighbors receive at least a daily phone call from Larry).
This often humorous and warm-hearted film is highly recommended for college students and other adults who work with the disabled or are interested in inclusive communities.
Awards
- Audience Award, Best Documentary, Horizon (Educational) Award, Aspen Shortsfest
- Director's Choice Award, Black Maria Film Festival; Family Award, USA Film Festival
- Henry Hampton Award, Council on Foundations
- Nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Short Documentary