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A Tear in the Fabric of Time Short Film Review
- alexjames96
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
★★★
Starring: #MichaelBurtch
Directed by: #ChristopherShoust
Short Film Review by: Alexandra James
This short film explores art in its purest form, directed by Christopher Shoust, the audience are exposed to the wonderful world of music and art combined. A Tear in the Fabric of Time focuses on a sound sculpture created by Michael Burtch on its 40th anniversary. The sculpture itself is located on the shores of St. Marys River and is made from ‘boat horns’ with a drum containing chimes and gongs standing at twenty-five feet tall. The huge chimes contrast significantly with the delicate sounds of the sculpture which are acoustic and far from overpowering. As the area is becoming increasingly popular, many people can visit and hear the beautiful sounds and become enveloped within its powerful effects. This film shows Michael Burtch playing a mixture of drums in front of the sculpture as it begins to chime simultaneously.
The entire film is shot in super 8 which gives the film a mysterious and edgy feel to the piece. It’s a unique and interesting way to capture the sculpture and its musical tones. To add more depth to this short film, there could have been a mixture of shots used to remain engaged throughout. The sounds of the chimes were mesmeric but coupled with the cinematography it almost made the piece eerie in places, perhaps this was not meant to be the overall tone but that’s a message that came across. This is due to the filming style; it’s a unique way to capture the sculpture and this should be commended for experimenting with different filming techniques. It does elevate the short film completely, as well as connecting well with the alluring sounds of the sculpture.
This was a fantastically alluring film that highlights the importance, power and influence art can have within life. Shoust creates a space to showcase this wonderful piece, and it’s a perfect way to inspire unique and exciting artwork and creativity from others. It’s crucial that originality and the ability to express yourself stays very much alive within this world.
