“The stunningly photographed, often difficult, always transfixing film was not the most satisfying creation on display at TIFF, or for many cinemagoers, its most alluring. But it was without question its most important,” correspondent Christopher Schobert wrote in his review of Godfrey Reggio‘s “Visitors” from Toronto last fall. “Here is a movie that defies simple interpretation and renders reviews—this one included—almost meaningless.” And it’s hardly a surprise the man behind the still influential trilogy “Koyaanisqatsi,” “Powaqqatsi” and “Naqoyqatsi” has once again created a cinematic experience that is beyond words.
But to help provide you with context, we’ve got a pretty terrific 8-minute, behind-the-scenes look at the movie, featuring along with the filmmaker, the participation of Steven Soderbergh (who is “presenting” the film), composer Philip Glass, editor Jon Kane and is narrated by musician/performance artist Laurie Anderson. And it’s fascinating stuff. First tracking Reggio’s career to date, the video then dives into the movie itself, the high-tech production and the process behind connecting the imagery in the film with the music and ideas they present. It’s pretty great look into the process and production of the movie and well worth a watch.
“Visitors” is now playing in limited release, and if you live in New York, be sure to check out The Museum Of Arts Of Design exhibit “Life With Technology: The Cinema Of Godfrey Reggio.”
