Johnny and June and Saul
"My Father and the man in Black" (2012 release; 88 min.) is a documentary written, produced and directed by Jonathan Holiff, the son of Saul Holiff. Saul was the manager of Johnny Cash for about 15 years (late 50s to early 70s).
As the documentary opens, we see a re-enactment of Saul's suicide in 2005, and Jonathan's subsequent obvious struggle with the passing of his dad, whom he barely had spoken to in the last 20 years apparently. As it happens, Saul left a true treasure trove of memorabilia from his entire career, including of course the golden years with Johnny Cash. Through the use of pictures, archive footage, and tons of reel tape with Saul's thoughts on everything (as well as taped telephone conversations--I wonder if the person on the other side of the line knew about that), Jonathan is able to paint a vivid picture of his dad's humble beginnings in Hollywood, only to eventually make it into "the business" as Johnny Cash's promotor and manager. The highlight of...
Highly recommended
I met Jonathan Holiff and saw this film at the Memphis Film Festival, where it won for best documentary. It has continued to rack up awards and accolades worldwide. It's an incredibly unique film in every way, from it's production style to it's source material. Saul Holiff was a fascinating man who had possibly one of the hardest jobs in all of show business- managing the force of nature known as Johnny Cash. It's a must for any fan of Cash, but, it's also a touching story of a son's journey to learn about the side of his father he never knew, and to realize that his father did actually love and care for him. It's unique source material- audio diaries, recorded phone calls, photos and more from Saul Holiff's storage locker- offer a highly personal and true to life account of his years managing the man in black. This film is a gem.
Every Father, Every Son should see this film at least once
This inspirational film makes compelling viewing as the story of the impact on the lives of effected by the erratic behavior of Johnny Cash is played out. Jonathan Holiff, the son of Saul, manager of Johnny Cash who was air brushed out of history, picks up the pieces following the premature death of his father by suicide. The resentment Johnathan felt after a life of emotional estrangement from his dad is tempered as he discovers the interminable pressure inflicted on Saul by the erratic, reckless behavior of Cash. The film is moving in a way you perhaps wont realize as the drama plays out but which will have you re-examine your relationship with your father / son and the results might not be as you would imagine. Compelling viewing.
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