As an unknowing college student boozing and chasing skirt, the world of depth and understanding of art and beauty was beyond my reach. On a post-graduation trip round Europe with friends back in 1999, I stumbled upon one of Antonio Gaudí's buildings while visiting Barcelona. Rounding what I thought was your average corner, unsuspecting, there it was. I was instantly attracted to him-it was love at first sight.
Seeing many of those same buildings in this document brought back some fond memories; but that's about all. I should add that I am a huge Teshigahara fan, and must further add that I find little that is cinematic about this experience. Everything is already there, ready made, you just have to go to Barcelona to see it. The angles and broad view with which we see some of the creations is well done, but it hardly warrants a major release. With so many great films needing re-release, I'm surprised Criterion chose this one.
The film does have a meditative quality about it, however, and granted, this may be seen as Teshigahara's silent homage to a fellow artist, but it is so minimalist and ordinary, that I'd have to say it comes out as simply average.
Seeing many of those same buildings in this document brought back some fond memories; but that's about all. I should add that I am a huge Teshigahara fan, and must further add that I find little that is cinematic about this experience. Everything is already there, ready made, you just have to go to Barcelona to see it. The angles and broad view with which we see some of the creations is well done, but it hardly warrants a major release. With so many great films needing re-release, I'm surprised Criterion chose this one.
The film does have a meditative quality about it, however, and granted, this may be seen as Teshigahara's silent homage to a fellow artist, but it is so minimalist and ordinary, that I'd have to say it comes out as simply average.