In Search of Forgotten Crafts - The Heart of the Iron

In Search of Forgotten Crafts - The Heart of the Iron follows the personal story of a blacksmith, Márton Kocsy, who offers an insightful look into one of the oldest traditionally male crafts. The piece is the fourth episode of a documentary series and narrated by actor Gábor Csőre. The idea for the documentary was originally conceived by Dániel Majoros, who invited director Marcell Betlej to join the project as creative director, editor and cinematographer.

While the material is fairly simplistic in its attempt to provide the viewer with enough insight into the disappearing professions in forgery, the formalism on display profoundly elevates the piece to impressive heights. Firstly, the drone photography is absolutely breathtaking, and the point-of-view camerawork is visceral and admittedly a sight to behold from cinematographer Péter Szögi. The opening of the piece is paced like a creature chasing its prey, with its ferocious camera movement and rapid editing. On the other hand, the sequences of the blacksmith forging are enthralling to witness due to the use of extreme close-ups and frenetic editing choices. It's simply a visual treat and satisfying to endure, accompanied by a remarkable title card drenched in flames from the forgery. The musical score is wonderfully incorporated into the piece, with its incredible motifs matching the forgeries on display.

The filmmakers set out to explore the elemental relationship of forgery and the craft that is fading as the years pass due to technological advancements. However, the cultural and symbolic aspects of forgery still live on in the lives of individuals such as Márton Kocsy, who have devoted their careers to this art form. Márton Kocsy offers a unique perspective that is rarely seen in cinema, such as explaining the spirit of blacksmithing and the underestimated necessity for blacksmiths. The dialogue can be delivered at such a brisk pace that it's almost overwhelming to process at times. That being said, this decision is ultimately necessary to provide the audience with enough context due to its tight runtime. This particular episode could have delved more into other blacksmith forges and explored another individual's perspective on how much has changed in the past few years. Gábor Csőre’s voiceover is impactful and provides context for why fewer individuals visit blacksmith workshops in this current climate, as they have become increasingly inaccessible. The use of voiceover also underscores the significance of recognising the blacksmith's work and dedication to the craft, despite technological advancements.

The Heart of the Iron alludes to future generations carving a path in this career to ensure the craft stays alive in years to come. Despite the restricted material, the piece never fails to engage the viewer due to the thought-provoking and fascinating dialogue from Márton Kocsy. The pacing rarely lets up, and that's a testament to the material and sublime filmmaking on display.

In Search of Forgotten Crafts - The Heart of the Iron is bursting with energy from the first frame to the striking and surreal conclusion. Forged in flames and iron, the filmmakers tackle a profound subject matter that delves into the necessity of blacksmiths and the cultural aspect of forgery that endures for future generations. The piece is a palpable piece of filmmaking beautifully helmed by Dániel Majoros and Marcell Betlej.