No Picnic is a 1986 American comedy drama film written and directed by Philip Hartman. It was shot in black and white in New York in 1985 and was released at the 1986 Sundance Film Festival, where it won an award for "Excellence in Cinematography" in the "Dramatic" category. Described as "a cinematic love letter to a pre-gentrified New York", the film captures the East Village of the 1980s. It stars David Brisbin, Richard Hell, Judith Malina, and Luis Guzmán, and has a brief appearance from Steve Buscemi.
Contents
Plot
Failed musician Macabee "Mac" Cohn makes his living servicing jukeboxes in the neighborhood, while in the search for the woman of his dreams. The obvious gentrification around is distressing and highlights his ill-fated life. His frustration increases when faced with individuals who remind him of his former aspirations.
Music
The soundtrack includes performances from "The Raunch Hands", Lenny Kaye, Charles Mingus, Fela Kuti, Richard Hell, and "Student Teachers".
Cast
David Brisbin as Macabee "Mac" Cohn
Clare Bauman as The Fan
Ryan Cutrona as Live Pimp
Anne D'Agnillo as Anne
Luis Guzmán as Arroyo
Richard Hell as Irate Tenant
Steve Buscemi as Dead Pimp
David Murray Jaffe as Big Pig Manager