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Batiste is a master at improvisation, which parallels the way Heineman follows this story where it goes. The film features a remarkable range of scenes that capture the creative process, most notably as Batiste works with his carefully curated orchestra on a performance that is simply stunning, especially when technical issues threaten to derail it, forcing a moment of sudden invention. All of this is beautifully shot and edited, interwoven with archival photos and footage, including several fantastic performances.

Speaking about composing his symphony, Batiste notes the need to confront the difficult truths while at the same time maintaining an unwavering faith in where things will go. Of course, this also applies to the experience he is going through with Jaouad. And indeed making this movie as well. As these various layers work with each other, the film transcends genres, becoming entertaining, gripping and profoundly moving.

themes, language

13.Nov.23

Intriguingly, he never seems to be trying to provoke his audience, even when he shoots a series of photos in which he gives the banned Nazi salute in various locations. Instead his work is a set out as a striking reminder, evoking images of events that we neglect to talk about and even try to block from our minds. So there's also a bit of mischief in his work, which Wenders captures with some amusing juxtapositions.

Kiefer's inspirations are largely in poets and philosophers, who turn up on screen as he speaks about their work. And as he creates projects around them, their words are able to carry the meanings further. It's such a dreamlike film that it will be interpreted differently by everyone who watches it, because at its core this is an odyssey about human nature itself, as seen through the eyes of this singular artist. Love or hate his work, the film lets you see through his eyes.

some themes

12.Oct.23

Between the interviews, Rodgers recounts his journey. In the absence of other gay-themed films, this one helped him realise he wasn't alone in the world, and that maybe he could hope for love one day. As he talks to Adams, he explores how the role helped him understand himself for the first time. And at one point during an interview, Smith further inspires him to be more open about his identity as a trans man, leading to a satisfying relationship with his wife Riley.

Importantly, the doc also grapples with the film's connection to Harvey Weinstein. And it comes at a time when more young people are coming out as pansexual, so are able to more strongly identify with Chasing Amy's plot. While there are many things about the film that wouldn't be acceptable today, the dialog addresses sexuality in an unusually honest and complex way, including some characters who are deliberately provocative. And in the end, there's a pointed, moving discussion of how the film is actually about dealing with insecurity.

themes, language

14.Oct.23