The aim of this project was to develop a non-voyeuristic film aesthetic, a film narrative that doesn't confirm the viewer's voyeuristic desires, but instead inspires the viewer to create her own inner images. The project explored the use of the black image, the abstract image, the detached image and the narrative voice as potential components of this alternative approach to film narrative.
The goal was to find new ways of seeing film but also to develop alternative ways of organizing production in a film industry where traditionally hierarchical structures and unhealthy working conditions have prevented many filmmakers from developing long-format films. Via visual concepts such as the black screen and using stripped-down cinematic language, we were able to plan film shoots that were responsive and flexible . In that way, the aesthetics informed the method.
Lucky One premiered in cinemas in the spring of 2019, and it was well received. It was described as hypnotic, poetic, boring, demanding, beautiful and unique. The film received the Eurimages Audentia Award for audacious and innovative storytelling through film. The motivation went thus:
Our winner is a labyrinth of a film. It tells its story from multiple directions, innovating with image and sound and challenging the audience. Like a Russian doll, it is multi-layered. Its director makes us see cinema and life in new ways.
It is my hope that artistic research will transform the field of cinema, questioning outdated perspectives and developing alternative cinematic aesthetics and methods, supporting film experiences that actively engage and involve spectators and resourcing the development of a more pluralistic, empathetic and sustainable film community.
