A few words about Ron first (pic at right). Since the early eighties, Ron Mann has been turning out award-winning documentaries “that focus on alternative and dissent culture”. To break that down, a documentary film is a factual account (should be anyway) and by looking at Ron's catalogue, you'll quickly zero in on the “alternative” and “dissent”. Check out his bio HERE.

While I haven't seen all of Ron's films, I did enjoy Comic Book Confidential, Dream Tower, Grass, Go Further and Blue Rodeo: In Stereovision. I look forward to the restoration version of Imagine the Sound that's on its way.

Prior to viewing “Tales” I had caught the trailer but wasn't sure if it would be true to the film as it caught my interest big time. We've all been disappointed when the trailer turns out to be the best thing about a film. Not so here. As soon as the credits started rolling, it was obvious that what would follow would be quirky, groovy, kool, weird (good weird of course) and entertaining. You can view the trailer HERE.

The film opens (and closes) with footage from a Rat Fink reunion in 2000. Ed, resplendent in top hat and tails, was autographing anything, everything and anyone. Note: Ed passed in 2001 – a shame. From this opening, Ron takes us back to the 50's complete with Dinah Shore singing about Chevies (gotta luv it), covers the early days of El Mirage through some classic archival footage and introduces Ed and where he was at. “Tales” is a mix of excellent animation, archival footage and some equally excellent use of enhanced stills that provided depth, motion and tons of atmosphere.

Throughout the film, Ed talks to us through the voice of John Goodman and Ann-Margret , Jay Leno , Brian Wilson, Tom Wolfe , Matt Groening , Robert Williams , Stone Cold Steve Austin , Paul LeMat , Billy F Gibbons , Theo Rosnick and The Smothers Brothers are also on hand to provide the voiceovers for a series of cars, trucks and a trailer that have stories to tell. You'll have to see it…

Ron does a nice job of moving through time and Ed's evolution as an enthusiast, painter, builder, artist and dad. The origins of the anti-Mickey Mouse Rat are exposed as well as where Ed got the name – interesting. All the cultural icons are also on hand: Von Dutch, the Beaver and Annette. All the while, Rat Fink bombs around in wild hot rods and even a Dali inspired ride (we told you it was weird) and Ed does a mean Tinker Bell impression. Neat stuff.

Enough of giving away all the details. On the other hand, It doesn't matter really as the enjoyment is in the viewing. You can check out where the film is playing / will be playing HERE. I understand that a DVD will be coming later this year.