Dumbstruck

There’s no doubt that ventriloquists and puppeteers are sometimes looked upon with ridicule, more often with fascination. The documentary “Dumbstruck” shows us some of both as it follows the careers and personal lives of five vents; polished pros Terry Fator and Dan Horn, regional touring talent and beauty queen Kim Yeager (now Miller), struggling saint Wilma Swartz, and young aspiring amateur Dylan Burdette.

The camera follows all five as they move their careers forward while struggling with life’s issues along the way. Particularly heart-wrenching were the families' reactions to the choice of occupation of the featured ventriloquists. Each ventriloquist is driven by hopes and dreams for their lives. The families also have hopes and dreams, but not always the same ones. You’ll find yourself rooting for the ventriloquists, especially when the people around them are least supportive.

“Dumbstruck” is beautifully photographed in widescreen HD and the storylines are nicely edited. I also appreciated the long timeline as each story unfolds. The peeks behind the curtains, from nursing home to cruise ship to Vegas showroom are fascinating. I really enjoyed the gorgeous footage from the annual Vent Haven convention. Throughout the film, you’ll see glimpses of personalities you may only know from vent blogs and forums.

“Dumbstruck” will entertain fellow ventriloquists and laypersons alike, though for different reasons. The film is respectful of oddities while celebrating both small and smashing successes. When it hits the theaters and/or DVD marketplace, I recommend you give this splendid documentary your time and attention.