BORDER RADIO was Allison Anders's directorial debut, made in collaboration with Kurt Voss (who would later work with her, and John Doe, on 1999's SUGAR TOWN), and Dean Lent. The film is an early indication of Anders's low key, wittily observant style. The plot involves a desperate musician, Jeff (Chris D, of the L.A. punk band, The Flesheaters), who leaves his wife (played by Luana Anders, the director's sister) and child, and runs to Mexico to escape his creditors. Much of the film involves Luana's effort to track Jeff down, and smooth things over with the people who are after him. The film's charm lies in its rambling good humor, and in the natural charisma of its stars, including musician John Doe (of the L.A. punkers, X), and Dave Alvin (of the 1980s rockabilly band, The Blasters). Shot in black and white, BORDER RADIO has tone not unlike Jarmusch's STRANGER THAN PARADISE. Anders ably conveys her passion for music, and some essential truths about the life styles of those on the fringes of society, in this quirky, likable film.