Paul London, Infinity Bunce | 00:04:20 | United States
“The Dance of Being” (2024): The film captures the essence of everything, from the subtle movements of wheat in the wind to the directional turn of a horse, from the rhythmic breath of the sea to the ticking numbers on a clock. These two filmmakers, who serendipitously connected during lockdown through social media, joined forces to create a film that explores the journey of existence.
Surprises abound in this cinematic experience, ranging from the clapping of hands in a Spanish tradition symbolizing the camaraderie of women across time to the poignant moment of a seal returning to its natural habitat. The film also offers glimpses into Derek Jarmon’s own home, adding a personal touch to the narrative.
The diverse settings include scenes of carrying a coffin in Spain, commuting in London, and traversing across America. Life, depicted as a continuous flux with no full stops, only commas, is vividly portrayed through various filming techniques. Lower ground panning shots of trees, drone footage capturing the meeting point of sea and land, and a young girl running on a beach leave viewers contemplating the purpose of her journey.
The film’s magic is heightened by the masterful musical accompaniment from The Qwarks, seamlessly intertwining with the visual storytelling. In summary, this intelligently crafted, creatively experimental film is a must-watch, offering a unique perspective on the ever-moving dance of existence.
Music
The Qwarks
Sound Design
Jason Moore
Vocals
Christine Thom
Additional Photography
Kim London
Drone Photography
Craig Chapman