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The Arts Intel Report

I Am Martin Parr

Martin Parr, Margate, Kent, England, 1986.

Streaming on Theaters

“The fundamental thing I’m exploring constantly is the difference between the mythology of the place,” explains the British photographer Martin Parr, “and the reality of it.” Bearing this in mind, Parr travels around his native country capturing bits and pieces of daily life with both introspection and satire. During the summers, he spends his days on the beach, photographing families, couples, and lone rangers lounging in the sand. The Brits aren’t exactly famous for being the most stylish of beach revelers, and with humor and charm Parr captures rundown seaside resorts in Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs. This documentary, playing at U.K. theaters now, takes us on a road trip through Britain with the maverick who arguably revolutionized contemporary photography. —Elena Clavarino

Photo: Martin Parr/Magnum Photos