Have I Seen It Before : Nope
Viewed via : Netflix streaming
I remember always going to the Shriner's Circus as a kid. We were not able to afford the Ringling Bros., so the Shriner's Circus was the next best thing. I loved the circus, at least as a child. I was enthralled by the bios in the programs, how far these performers had brought their talents. All the way from Russia to the Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga Tennessee. What must a Russian bear have thought about pulling in to our small, southern city?
Circus Rosaire showcases what has become of the nine generation Rosaire circus family. They, like so many Circus performers, find their way to Florida, traveling the world, raising their bears, chimps and big cats, basking in the fame that was the Circus life. That is until the Berlin wall comes down and "cheaper" outside performers make their way over. Add to this the rise in the animal rights movement and the Circus has become outdated, losing its luster an celeb cache. Despite nearly every man, woman and child having experienced it at some point.
Now the Rosaire's find themselves taking work when they can get it, trying to run an animal sanctuary and keeping everyone fed. Seems there were plenty of abandoned big cats in Florida after the drug lords went belly up. And yes, while PETA has a point (I'm pretty sure elephants don't WANT a spandex clad lady in feathers balancing on them), if it weren't for the former circus folks sanctuaries, where would these animals wind up?
The Rosaire's reminded me of a long lost 70's rock band, plenty of hits but who wants to see them now? Still traveling, playing smaller places because they love what they do and still need to make a living. Playing the old standbys for those that'll gather,hoping to pick up some new followers along the way.
Well directed, at times funny and tragic. Circus Rosaire shows you where the stars go when when tents get smaller.
Available via Netflix Streaming/Amazon Instant/DVD
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