Greg Wall’s “The Steve Project” is an hourlong documentary/character study of Steve Kessler, longtime Village Idiot/Savant of L.A.‘s Fairfax District. Following a period of of five months before Steve is to be turned out of his subsidized housing, the film documents Steve’s efforts to “focus,” as some very troubling prospects mount around him. Taking refuge in the margins of 7-11 and Victoria’s Secret, Steve is sustained by hope and hopelessness. Funny and harrowing, Wall’s film reminds us of the Beckett characters who lurk in the shadows of the strip malls. 63 Minutes, U.S.A.
