Seminci, Between Dog and Wolf: A Unique Perspective on Experimental Cinema
The 69th edition of the Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid offered a distinctive panorama of formal and narrative vertigos seen (or unseen) in the major international festivals of the year. The young section "Alchimies," a kind of critic trap dedicated to more experimental fictions (or docufictions), had the merit of presenting bold avant-garde attempts while allowing neighboring sections to highlight other aspects that define the quality of a film or the coherence of a program, without stifling the porosities between these selections.
In the official selection, "Harvest" by Athiná-Rachél Tsangári painted a lyrical picture of the disappearance of a premodern Scottish village at a time when a new cartography optimizes agricultural production. On the other hand, "The Human Hibernation" by Ana Cordunella Castro (part of "Alchimies") dreams of a "post-world" where humanity begins to hibernate, creating a very sensual post-apocalyptic scenario that blurs the hierarchy between humans and non-humans, making any linear concept of time impossible.
Two other films in the section explore this twilight tone: in "Agora" by Ala Eddine Slim (perhaps the most beautiful film of the festival), a blue dog and a sleeping crow comment on the agitation in a Tunisian village facing signs of an impending catastrophe, merging science fiction with the most archaic imaginings in a quest to decipher the return of three undead and the calamities that follow.
Meanwhile, "Invention" by Courtney Stephens, where the protagonist inherits the patent for a strange therapeutic machine after her father’s death, bears resemblance to "The Sweat East" by Sean Price Williams, delving into a world of conspiracy theories and alternative medicines. The theme of mourning is central, creating a vertigo amplified by the father’s TV archive footage and visible claps.
The Seminci festival thus paved the way for a critical appreciation of the power of images, embracing both their strengths and limitations through questioning gaps, fictional hybridizations, and medium exhibitions.
Circé Faure
Conclusion
The unique and daring films showcased at the Seminci festival offer a glimpse into the innovative and thought-provoking world of experimental cinema. With a focus on challenging narratives and visual styles, these films push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and invite audiences to question their perceptions of reality. The festival’s selection of avant-garde works ensures that cinema remains a dynamic and evolving art form, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity and imagination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Seminci festival?
Seminci, short for Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid, is an annual film festival held in Valladolid, Spain, showcasing a diverse selection of international cinema. - What makes the "Alchimies" section unique?
The "Alchimies" section of the festival focuses on more experimental fictions and docufictions, offering bold and avant-garde cinematic experiences. - Which film stood out as the most beautiful at the festival?
"Agora" by Ala Eddine Slim was hailed as one of the most visually stunning films at the Seminci festival, blending science fiction with ancient myths. - How does "The Human Hibernation" challenge traditional narratives?
"The Human Hibernation" by Ana Cordunella Castro imagines a post-apocalyptic world where humanity enters a state of hibernation, disrupting linear concepts of time and hierarchy. - What themes are explored in "Invention" by Courtney Stephens?
Courtney Stephens’ film "Invention" delves into themes of grief, conspiracy, and alternative medicine, creating a captivating narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. - What was the audience’s reaction to the films in the "Alchimies" section?
Audiences were captivated by the experimental and daring nature of the films in the "Alchimies" section, appreciating the unique perspectives and innovative storytelling techniques. - How does Seminci contribute to the evolution of cinema?
Seminci plays a crucial role in promoting avant-garde cinema and pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling, ensuring that the art form continues to evolve and innovate. - Are there any upcoming events or screenings related to the films showcased at Seminci?
Stay tuned for future screenings and events related to the films featured at Seminci, as they continue to make waves in the world of experimental cinema. - Where can audiences watch these films outside of the festival circuit?
Keep an eye on streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar, and Zee5 for potential releases of these groundbreaking films for a wider audience to enjoy. - What is the significance of embracing experimental cinema in today’s film industry?
Embracing experimental cinema is vital for the growth and evolution of the film industry, as it challenges traditional norms and encourages creativity and innovation in storytelling.