This BBC production looking at the life and work of Jan Svankmajer is included on the disc "Collected Shorts of Jan Svankmajer: Vol. 2" and is worth your time--particularly because Svankmajer's films are so incredibly enigmatic. After seeing some of his films, the viewer naturally wants to know more about this unusual guy!! Unfortunately, while it does answer some questions, the film is pretty short. Plus, it only addresses the man's work up to about 1990. Now this is NOT to say you shouldn't see it--just understand that it's not complete. In the film you learn about the political aspects of his shorts, how surrealism is behind his projects and how a painter named Archimbaldo inspired his work--even though he lived several centuries ago.
Be forewarned, however, that during part of the film you'll see a pig slaughtered. There is a reason for this--it isn't just gratuitous. But, many will find this rather disturbing.
Be forewarned, however, that during part of the film you'll see a pig slaughtered. There is a reason for this--it isn't just gratuitous. But, many will find this rather disturbing.
