by Robert Westbrook
Is there anything more pathetic than a wannabe? A clinger? A hanger-on trying too hard to fit into a scene? This is the story of Stanley Sweetheart, a college student from an affluent background enamoured with the hipster lifestyle of sex, drugs & rock n’ roll and seeking to make avant-guard film that brings it all together.
The Magic Garden of Stanley Sweetheart is a simple, semi-autobiographical tale of what happens when the fun goes to far. Set in the swingingest of ’60’s decadence, it’s a great portrait of an ordinary guy who’s desperate to seem cool and an authentic historical snapshot of an era that produced great art but burnt itself out pretty quickly.
It’s a well-written, mostly light, fun read, though it has its heavier, emotional moments. Recommended for anyone who gets a thrill from a good ol’ fashioned tale of debauchery and hedonism.
As I type these harsh words I’m starting to realize that maybe, just maybe, there’s a little bit of Stanley in all of us, even me. Well, I guess it’s time to do a little soul searching…
The Man Who Came to Rent 