Dan Kraus has only a few million films left to make until he finishes up the “Work Series.” A documentary series inspired by Studs Terkel and Frederick Wiseman, the Work Series chronicles the drama, passion, and alienation in how Americans’ professions shape their lives (and vice versa). The first two titles, Sheriff and Musician are now out on DVD; Kraus has shared some info about the next two titles, and also some release info for Musician.
Many of us feel a spirituality in our work; Sheriff Ronald Hewett and Musician Ken Vandermark are likely candidates. But now, Kraus is depicting that connection more explicitly. Kraus has been following around Professor Jay Holstein of the University of Iowa’s department of Religious Studies, and Preacher Bishop William Nowell of New Covenant Pentecostal Church in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Meanwhile, back in hard-working Chicagoland, release celebrations for Musician are underway. Chicago-based Facets Video is giving away a few DVDs through a contest enterable via email; Evanston-based publication PopMatters has a review here. Then on June 11, Kraus and Vandermark are throwing a concert and DVD release party at the Hideout, one of the best little clubs anywhere. The concert starts at 9pm Chicago-time; Vandermark and Paal Nilssen-Love will be playing. (Google Calendar, iCal, upcoming.org, Yahoo calendar)
Kraus promises a Preacher clip in a few weeks. Meanwhile, check out the good Professor’s oddly riveting introduction above.