For a film with no words, Koyaanisqatsi sure does manage to get its views on humanity's relationship with nature across well. I'd say that it's even a slight bit over the top at a time or two (the translations of the prophecies and the title that were shown before the end credits and the scenes of the desolate, abandoned city come to mind, as well as the truck covered in its own exhaust fumes.). That said, I'll admit that it managed to keep my interest throughout most of the movie (the biggest exception being the scene with the planes on the runways which ran a bit too long), and many of the shots and especially the music were quite beautiful, with my favorites being the views on the lake and the overhead shots of the city at night. I also like that the Mr. Reggio, the director, supports the ability to interpret the film as you like rather than forcing one down our throats (no matter how much it seems like the film is at times).
I agree that Reggio does capture the relationship of humanity with nature well although he certainly tends towards the extreme. The cities he shows are dense metropolitan areas that while prevalent, are not the entirety of human society. Reggio makes a strong environmental statement without ever saying a word.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what your saying about how it can get a bit over the top. The transitions between certain scenes was definitely lacking as well which was sort of a drag. The plane scene was also very boring. I'm pretty sure I left the room for a little bit to get some food. Reggio really did convey his message without shoving it down your throat, but rather letting you take it as you want.
ReplyDeleteI agree that Reggio chooses to approach the extremes to get his point across much clearer, although his point is something that he leaves up for interpretation. The fact that the film doesn't include any words definitely caught me off guard as well, and it astounds me that such an influential message can be expressed through images and music, rather than words.
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