According to critics and fans alike, San Francisco musician Chris von Sneidern was destined for fame. It hasn't happened. 'Why Isn't Chris von Sneidern Famous?' examines the artist's life, attempting to reveal what happened. At the same time, Chris looks back through the lens at us, questioning our assumptions about fame and success.—Anonymous

Why do some artists garner mass adulation while others remain only cult heroes? Director Kathleen McNamara attempts to answer these questions in the aptly named, intimate portrait Why Isn't Chris von Sneidern Famous? After hearing von Sneidern - known to his followers as CVS - perform at the San Francisco Mission District hot spot, Bruno's, McNamara began her quest, ultimately following CVS for four years, capturing candid and funny interviews and engaging performances. Her film doesn't shy away from the poignant questions of offstage life, as CVS approaches middle age and attempts to reconcile his current station with the grand visions he and others continue to hold for him, even as dreams of rock and roll stardom begin to slip away. The film is structured around six interviews that show the trust that gradually develops between the flattered, but reluctant, subject and the filmmaker. But upon learning the film will reveal his struggling career path, he grows uncomfortable and looks back through the lens at the filmmaker and audience, questioning our assumptions about fame and success. These interviews are complimented by conversations with musicians (including John Wesley Harding and Peter Straus, of The Dwarves), music critics, producers, girlfriends, and family members. A primary motif is Chris music - well crafted, brainy pop songs in a traditional mode. This is a compelling story of an artist struggling to make sense of his life's work. The film leaves the audience with deep questions about fame and our struggle for success: who defines success and what is it worth?—Anonymous