In the early 1980s, experimental documentary filmmaker Godfrey Reggio released his first full length feature, Koyaanisqatsi (deriving from a Hopi language word which means "unbalanced life"). Upon its release, it did gain a decent amount of traction, although it gained more notion through cult status. In addition, it happens to be the first in the Qatsi film trilogy; the next two being Powaqqatsi and Naqoyqatsi. As for the film in general, it depicts different aspects of the relationship between humans, nature and technology. Reggio himself stated that the film is left to interpretation, and in my personal opinion, let's just say that I respect it more than I actually like it.
One gorgeous aspect of the feature is the cinematography, particularly during the first 20 minutes which showcases forests, mountains and canyons as far as the eye can see. However, right when nature has pulled us in, the film smoothly transitions into explosions, consumerism and all sorts of chaos to create a gripping juxtaposition containing a grim view of mankind. The choice to convey the message through visuals rather than dialogue is what makes this film such a thought provoking experience. No matter how one examines the feature, there is no right or wrong answer; it's all up to the individual viewer to decide for themselves.
What makes the film really gut wrenching for me is how it tackles the horror of technology. Technology is shown to be quite a threat when it comes to how people use it. Whether it be using scientific experiments, working in factories or even getting caught up in city life, there's always a feeling of unsettling desolation throughout the film. Mankind has utilized what they've created up to the point of no return, which is still relevant to this day. In addition, the score by Philip Glass is brilliantly composed, as it manages to balance a sense of harmony with haunting melodies depending on the moment. Had it not been for this score, the film would not have had as strong of an emotional gut punch in getting its point across.
Now with all that said, as much as I admire the film for its intentions, I must admit that it is kind of a chore to sit through. Several scenes do drag on for my tastes, and I felt the feature would've worked better at a 30 to 40 minute length. By going on for 85 minutes, it ends up taking away a lot of intrigue from its purpose. Also, while I get that the film is supposed to show the unbalanced state of life, it doesn't really offer an alternative way of living. If you want to get across that there needs to be a new way of living, maybe have a scene at the end that shows a national park or someone plating a tree. By doing that, it shows that there is hope for a better tomorrow, rather than just focusing on mankind's wrong doings.
All in all, despite my mixed feelings towards the film itself, I still have nothing but the upmost respect for Koyaanisqatsi. It's just as relevant now as it was back in the day, and no matter who you are, it can speak to everyone through its poetic non linear narrative alone. If you're into arthouse films, pro-environmental documentaries or you just want to be reminded as to why we need to preserve our planet, definitely give this film a watch. Even if it ends up boring you, its orchestral visuals and biting social commentary will make it stand out one way or another.
One gorgeous aspect of the feature is the cinematography, particularly during the first 20 minutes which showcases forests, mountains and canyons as far as the eye can see. However, right when nature has pulled us in, the film smoothly transitions into explosions, consumerism and all sorts of chaos to create a gripping juxtaposition containing a grim view of mankind. The choice to convey the message through visuals rather than dialogue is what makes this film such a thought provoking experience. No matter how one examines the feature, there is no right or wrong answer; it's all up to the individual viewer to decide for themselves.
What makes the film really gut wrenching for me is how it tackles the horror of technology. Technology is shown to be quite a threat when it comes to how people use it. Whether it be using scientific experiments, working in factories or even getting caught up in city life, there's always a feeling of unsettling desolation throughout the film. Mankind has utilized what they've created up to the point of no return, which is still relevant to this day. In addition, the score by Philip Glass is brilliantly composed, as it manages to balance a sense of harmony with haunting melodies depending on the moment. Had it not been for this score, the film would not have had as strong of an emotional gut punch in getting its point across.
Now with all that said, as much as I admire the film for its intentions, I must admit that it is kind of a chore to sit through. Several scenes do drag on for my tastes, and I felt the feature would've worked better at a 30 to 40 minute length. By going on for 85 minutes, it ends up taking away a lot of intrigue from its purpose. Also, while I get that the film is supposed to show the unbalanced state of life, it doesn't really offer an alternative way of living. If you want to get across that there needs to be a new way of living, maybe have a scene at the end that shows a national park or someone plating a tree. By doing that, it shows that there is hope for a better tomorrow, rather than just focusing on mankind's wrong doings.
All in all, despite my mixed feelings towards the film itself, I still have nothing but the upmost respect for Koyaanisqatsi. It's just as relevant now as it was back in the day, and no matter who you are, it can speak to everyone through its poetic non linear narrative alone. If you're into arthouse films, pro-environmental documentaries or you just want to be reminded as to why we need to preserve our planet, definitely give this film a watch. Even if it ends up boring you, its orchestral visuals and biting social commentary will make it stand out one way or another.