How to Appreciate Surrealist Films
In the realm of film, one of the youngest forms of art, there is probably no other genre people debate as heatedly as Surrealist film. Surrealism makes sense to many as a form of painting or as music, but when it comes to utilizing the techniques of Surrealism in a film medium, people often aren't so sure what to make of it.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Know what you are getting yourself into. A negative reaction is often due to the fact that what you got is not what you expected. Find out a little bit about Surrealism and its applications to the film medium before you watch any so that you can appreciate the art form. If you go in blind, expect the unexpected.
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Take things as they come to you. Don't try to make sense of everything all at once. Surrealist films are not like a regular movie--they often introduce oddities and uncanny things which may or may not fit in to the larger picture and plot.
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Try not to over-analyze what you watch. Scholars have studied and written about Surrealist films, and there are certainly plenty of theories which apply to many Surrealist works of film. However, as a casual viewer or someone who is trying to gain a general appreciation for the medium, it's better not too try to dig to deeply at first or you may find yourself in over your head.
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Reflect and discuss what you have seen with others. One of the most fun things about watching Surrealist films is discovering what other people get out of the experience. It's rare that two people feel the same way about a film. The real fun begins once the screen goes dark and you have the opportunity to discuss the film with others.
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Tips & Warnings
Some of the most famous Surrealist films include "Un Chien Andalou" and "L'Age d'Or," both directed by Luis Bunuel and Salvador Dali; "Le Sang d'un poète," directed by Jean Cocteau; and "Entr'acte," directed by René Clair.
Alfred Hitchcock, though not a Surrealist filmmaker, had Salvador Dali help him design a dream sequence for his film, "Spellbound." This is a rare occasion where you can find a strong Surrealist element in an otherwise "normal" film.
