The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar (11.83 min. version) (1976)
Franz Mesmer's pseudo-scientific explanation for the forces of nature - mesmerism - forms the central motif of the Poe short story from which this film derives its title. Two strains dominate the film: one celebrates the mesmeric state induced by the random repetitive movements of a toy car with its flickering colored light and the second traces recollections of the humorous process of shooting the film. Oscillations between these two elements underscore the play between illusions of physical reality and altered perceptions. ... VALDEMAR is an uncut 400-foot camera roll with synchronous sound.
"A simple and elegant film which despite its simplicity continues to intrigue with each viewing." - Carmen Vigil, Canyon Cinemanews
"Wickedly funny. Should be required to accompany TEXT OF LIGHT."
- Keith Sanborn
selected for exhibition in "100 Years of Experimental Film - Experimental Filmmakers USA," Beaubourg Museum, Paris.
"A simple and elegant film which despite its simplicity continues to intrigue with each viewing." - Carmen Vigil, Canyon Cinemanews
"Wickedly funny. Should be required to accompany TEXT OF LIGHT."
- Keith Sanborn
selected for exhibition in "100 Years of Experimental Film - Experimental Filmmakers USA," Beaubourg Museum, Paris.
running time: 12 minutes color sound
exhibition format: 16mm optical sound film
available for rental from http://canyoncinema.com/catalog/film/?i=1570
exhibition format: 16mm optical sound film
available for rental from http://canyoncinema.com/catalog/film/?i=1570