Czech Animation Question

[eredien]

So, I was reading volume 1 of the collection of Grant Morrison's Vertigo remake of Doom Patrol this evening.

And I read the little letter from Morrison at the end, wherein he recommended a Czech filmmaker named Jan Svankmajer. So I went and looked Svankmajer up in the glorious thing that is the Internet Movie Database. And found a filmography which looks truly amazing. If you've ever seen that style of animation and film that comes from Russia and Poland and that area of the world, you'll remember it and know what I'm talking about. And if you haven't, it's about time.

So, besides his adaptation of Castle of Ontranto ("As the moving tape on a reel to reel recorder is shown, the theorist tells of receiving a postcard of the ruins of a Czechoslovakian castle which he maintains is the one referenced in the Italian story"), and Alice in Wonderland, what else should we put onto the Netflix queue?

I wish I could see his film in production...the credits list the actors as playing characters named "The Marquis" and "Mad Psychiatrist."

--

Going back to doctor's in two weeks or so for bloodwork.

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

I love his 'Alice in Wonderland'. Proof that the drug scene in the Czech Republic is healthy. :)

[ceruleanst.livejournal.com]

I've seen Alice, Conspirators of Pleasure, Manly Game, and various shorts. All on the big screen. I believe you live close enough to Philly that you really ought to check the film festivals whenever they come around.

As for recommendations, it depends on whether you want to see a candid, personal look at sexual fetishes or a wacky slapstick look at violent sports. All of Svankmajer's work is steeped in calculated unease; as soon as you see the orange marmalade, you know just what kind of experience you're in for.

[eredien]

You mean I can't see a candid, personal look at violent sports, or a wacky slapstick look at sexual fetishes? I'm disappointed. *grin*

Well, your comment should've scared any normal person off.
Glad I'm still enthused; it's reassuring.

Which of his would you recommend to someone who's seeing his work for the first time? Is there something exemplary, yet not his best, so that there's still more to look forward to?

And I'm in Boston now, by the way, but your comment still applies.

[ceruleanst.livejournal.com]

Maybe you can; I haven't seen all of his work.

Alice is a good introduction. It's far from genius, but it gives you a good idea of his aesthetic. It reminds me of the kind of nightmares I had when I was three years old, but it's safe for the whole family.