Deren response II

Deren seems to be concerned with the abstract logic of the subconscious mind, and the blur between dreams and reality. She shows how the subconscious can turn a simple issue into a big problem and affect reality. For example, in the stair scene, the task of climbing the stairs and chasing the figure become very extensive and laborous. These are often seen from the first person perspective to add to the ambiguity and confusion between dreams and reality. I believe the content and technique are unable to be separated in Deren's films because they rely on each other equally to create the poetic quality.

Poetry and The Film response

This reading is very confusing but had some interesting points. I agree with Miller's idea of the film being the closest man made aesthetic device to the structure of a dream. I agree because it deals with the illusion of time and space, and the combinations of images. If comparing poetic films to dreams, I would say they are quite similar. They are not always concerned with logicality or a common structure. I agree with Deren's comparison of poetic films with dream sequences from commercial films. Most of the narratives in commercial film's rely on actions and logic to receive logical interpretations, but when they must represent something more abstract, they rely more on emotions and meanings implied through linked images. This abstract representation receives abstract interpretations which are usually different for many viewers. To me, that makes it more poetic since it is not so concrete and allows the imagination and feelings to come into play.

Numbing Numbers (Film Still)

Maya Deren Response

I really enjoyed the camera work and the dreamlike quality of Maya Deren's work. The camera is tilted in interesting ways in conjunction with the actresses movements to create strange perspectives and perceptions of space. It is also interesting how she only showed fragments of the character by tight cropped shots which build up to a total reveal. I think it is a very strong technique, when she cuts to different locations in the middle of actions such as walking through the house, or when she is chasing something. She also makes objects and tasks seem endless through her cuts. Overall, I found Maya Deren's work very compelling and influential.

Artist Statement/Bio

As a video artist, I am interested in the roles people choose to, or are forced to play in modern society. I am also interested in the duality of human nature, specifically the instinctual side of the conscience versus the more social side. I see the more social conscience as a mask that is forced onto people by those with money and power in modern society. I want to remove this mask. I want people to stop being content with hiding their true selves. I want people to be individuals not a mass of masked machines.


Video Synopsis

Numbing Numbers
This is an examination of the social masks or roles forced onto people in society. Those in control are content with the mask because it benefits them. The working class do not benefit from this mask, they are used like replaceable machines, maintained as cheaply as possible to get the job done.

Confined from Wesley Catlett on Vimeo.

Content from Wesley Catlett on Vimeo.