Carnage

(Carnages)
Delphine Gleize, France / Spain / Belgium, 2002
3.5 out of 4 stars

It takes some good skill at filmmaking to show a transition between a bullfight and a large Labrador jumping onto the couch, and not make it seem gimmicky in the slightest. Indeed, this film is all about somewhat inexplicable juxtapositions, as well as a peculiar conceit that I wish hadn’t been spoiled for me by the summary I read somewhere (also, the director didn’t seem to follow through on it, for some reason).

To put it simplistically, there is too much going on here, as opposed to the other kind of art film in which there is not enough going on. The threads that connect the different narratives are often slight, but, while confusing here and there, are largely involving. Once again, I find myself not sure what the overall point was, or even sure if there was supposed to be one. Certainly an engaging film experience… and on the big screen, too!

Source: Wellspring 35mm print
2 May, 7:35 PM