October 10, 2007 Arts+Movies » Film Reviews

FILM REVIEW: A Man Named Pearl 

The Man with the Green Thumb: S.C. topiary artist Pearl Fryar focus of charming — yet drama-free — documentary

by Chris Haire

Within the first few minutes of the documentary A Man Named Pearl, two things become evident about the titular subject of the film. One, the self-taught topiary artist Pearl Fryar could go mano-y-mano with Edward Scissorhands in a battle to create the most fanciful garden ever and come out the undisputed winner. Two, Mr. Fryar has, without a doubt, the deepest voice known to man. It's deeper than Barry White, the Atlantic Ocean, and the entire field of quantum mechanics.

And while it may be shallow to make note of Fryar's cavernous voice, the sound itself is a major reason this big-screen profile of the Bishopville, S.C., topiary artist is appealing. There is a serene gravity to his speech, the kind we imagine that only the most enlightened among us possess. And maybe that's because Fryar has truly found a sense of inner peace doing the thing he loves the most.

However, as appealing as Fryar is and as awe-inspiring as his creations are — and make no doubt they are fantastical figures that will cause you to ooh and ahh — the film is never able to rise to the level of a great documentary film. Quite simply, directors and producers Scott Galloway and Brent Pierson have crafted a story in which there is absolutely no conflict. Yes, there is some mention that the white folks in Bishopville kept Fryar from purchasing a home in a white neighborhood, but any discussion of racial conflict past or present is brief.

But this lack of conflict goes beyond anything to do with race relations. Based on what we know, Fryar's life has been charmed, which is quite wonderful for him as a human being, but for us as moviegoers, well, it doesn't quite make for compelling filmmaking. There is no physical disability to overcome, no threats faced, no family tragedy that forces our protagonist to question it all. As such, A Man Named Pearl makes for a good segment on 60 Minutes, but it is not particularly captivating big screen entertainment. — Chris Haire

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That there is no crafted conflict, which debases many documentaries, is this film's strength. Precisely that it simply, very simply and honestly, tells a story about a man's passion allows us -- as intelligent and thoughtful viewers who don't require created storylines when hearing about real-life --to bring our own meaning and depth to a life well-lived. Pearl has struggled; anyone who knows the history of this country and particularly the history of the South knows what struggles he has been through. I don't need a documentary filmmaker to create drama. The reason you do not find the film captivating is exactly the reason that I do.

Posted by fortunate on July 25, 2008 at 11:39 PM | Report this comment

This was a review that had it all wrong.This should be on any must see must rent list.When i saw this review a year ago i thought did we both see the same movie.A+ see it!

Posted by TERRACE THEATER on July 27, 2008 at 11:44 AM | Report this comment

I agree that this review has it all wrong. Pearl is a compelling person, his wife, his topiary, his thoughtfulness, his skill with a chain saw- I could watch and listen to this man forever. It is a feast of images wisdom and love in your own backyard. This movie is truly a gem.

Posted by Pam Smith on January 19, 2009 at 2:59 PM | Report this comment

One of the worst reviews.They got it all wrong.A gem to own now on dvd.....

Posted by TERRACE THEATER on January 19, 2009 at 8:55 PM | Report this comment

A Man Named Pearl aired in NY on HGTV Sunday March 22, 2009. I was interested in the program because of the title -- because my mother's name is Pearl and she is also from SC. I told her to watch the program and we talked in between commercials. I was so moved by Mr. Fryar's determination and perseverance. I cried. It is a very warm and touching story told so beautifully. I hope one day I am blessed to see Mr. Fryar's Garden in person. I only wonder if GOD has given Mr. Fryar a vison of what it's like in the Gardens of Heaven. May God give him long life to keep on inspiring All of US to create something beatiful here on earth...

Posted by sharone on March 23, 2009 at 12:35 PM | Report this comment

Chris Haire, what do you mean us as movie goers? This film was not to show the weakness or ignorance of anyone. It was not the purpose of the film to show personal tragedy. It did (the film) everything that it purposed, and that was to show the great talent of a self taught man. He has even baffled those who have spent many years in studies.

Mr Pearl you are as beautiful as your name

You have inspired many from around the globe with your strength, love of people young and old, your talent, your mild manner.


you have insired us all with your HEART!


Posted by Sonrisa on March 23, 2009 at 4:59 PM | Report this comment

While I agree there was no hard-hitting conflict, I found the film to be a truly inspirational documentary (a rarity, IMHO); perhaps I don't aspire to create topiaries, but I do hope to be at least a minutely positive influence on others like Mr. Pearl.

I viewed the film at the Olde Village Talking Picture House in Park Circle on Saturday, and the end credits were met with applause...I can't recall the last time I was in a theater and this happened.

Posted by cary on March 24, 2009 at 11:44 AM | Report this comment

Chris Haire has watched way too much Michael Moore. Please, Chris, allow something simply wonderful to be just that..."simply wonderful."

Posted by momofmany on March 27, 2009 at 6:52 PM | Report this comment

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