I had hoped to see more of the Sydney Film Festival (in particular Terence Davies films) but work took over this weekend. I did catch Carlos Reygadas' Silent Light. Reygadas’ influences have been documented by serious film reviewers (Dreyer, Dumont – though I must confess I preferred Silent Light to L'Humanite). It was all new to me though. It’s a very interesting film – full of philosophy and grace (I am not sure this is entirely due to its Mennonite setting though it helps, I think it’s the approach to the film-making more than the subject). The "non-actors" did a great job – putting on a show seems to be intrinsic to the human race. Its bookend shots of the sun rising as well as a final shot of stars are spectacular (again much commented on) and serve to set the tone of the film. I felt that the composition of the film was a bit too careful – Reygadas nearly pulls it off but you do not forget how carefully composed this film is. But it is a thoughtful and serene gem. The film was followed by a Q&A in which Reygadas illuminated the difference between Ordet and Silent Light (each ending is perhaps indicative of the time the film maker lives in/lived in, Reygadas said his ending is not about divine intervention but more organic and natural). It was a relaxed Q&A and Reygadas also has a sense of sly humor – apparently his lead actor signed on as he has an eye on Hollywood!
A detailed review and interview here.
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