Self-Portrait

In this intimate documentary, director Jonas Mekas invites viewers to join him on a reflective journey through his remarkable life as a pioneer in avant-garde cinema. Known for his unconventional approach to filmmaking and dedication to documenting the counterculture movement, Mekas offers an authentic insight into his experiences as a Lithuanian refugee, his time spent working in New York City's underground art scene, and how he has continually pushed boundaries in the world of cinema. The film combines rare footage from Mekas’ vast archive with contemporary interviews and personal anecdotes, providing both a historical account of 20th-century European and American arts and an intimate portrait of one man's resilience, creativity, and passion for storytelling. As we navigate through the highs and lows of Mekas’ life, we come to appreciate not only his artistic legacy but also the power of film as a medium for self-expression and preserving personal history.