Machinima, the technique
Before the actual screening of the films, we were given an introduction of the medium, the filmmakers, and the films we were watching that day. This was especially helpful for someone like me, who had no prior knowledge of machinima. The term “Machinima” is a combination of two words, “machine” and “cinema”. It is the technique of using video game recordings to create animated films.
Super Mario Movie (2005)
We watched the Super Mario Movie (2005) by Cory Arcangel. Arcangel is an avant-gardist who made animated films by hacking and modifying video game data. The Super Mario Movie (2005) was made from the original game of Super Mario Bros (1985). It was visually stimulating. I like it. The film was a combination of vibrant-colored backgrounds, Super Mario styled character icons scattered on the screen, and color blocks and patterns popping on and off. The altered Super Mario sound effects played in the background. The visuals/scenes renewed every ten seconds or so, so I was never bored. The film captured the visual, audio, and atmospheric elements of the original Super Mario game well. The Super Mario Movie can be described as Arcangel’s interpretation of the Super Mario aesthetic
Rehearsals for Retirement (2007)
This was another film at the screening. Rehearsals for Retirement (2007) was part of the In Memoriam trilogy by Phil Soloman. Soloman was an acclaimed traditional and experimental filmmaker. He employed machinima in this trilogy by repurposing GTA footage. I like the atmosphere of the film. In terms of visuals, I appreciate the toned-down colors and gradient backgrounds. As of the background music, it reminded me of the 852hz Solfeggio frequencies I listen to occasionally, which was relaxing. Though the footage itself was not exactly the most peaceful (such train tracks on fire and car sinking under the sea). The experience was surreal.
The Edge of the World (2021)
The other film I enjoyed was The Edge of the World (2021) by Natalie Maximova. The film is ultimately a series of footage of landscape from the game Cyberpunk 2077 (2022-present). What was strange about these footages was that they were all filmed at the most unexpected angles. For example, we got to see the planted crops from underneath and the edge of a supposedly boundless desert. The film showed us the limitations of camera, or another way to think about it, it showed the limitations of the Cyberpunk 2077 game world. Though the film was meant to poke fun at the limitations of the game, the landscape was still beautiful, I think it would be a great advertisement for the game.
Conclusion
Unlike traditional films, experimental films are not focused on the narrative. Thus, they don’t necessarily have to have a meaning. Every experimental film does have a purpose: the media is constructed to intentionally make the audience experience specific affects. After the screening, I would say experimental films are not my cup of tea. I prefer narrative driven films. But what an experience!
