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Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen

Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen (1977)

Jan 01, 1977 27m Documentary

Germaine Dierterlen talks about Dogon mythology at a conference on the Bandiagara cliffs. The Songo canopy is a sacred site in Bandiagara. Its walls are covered with paintings depicting the different phases of creation. A little further on, in a cave near the village of Bongo, symposium participants are discussing the Tellem, the people who lived in the houses built into the cliffs before the arrival of the Dogon. The archaeological remains and migratory movements of these two peoples are discussed.

Directed by Jean Rouch

Cast

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Germaine Dieterlen
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Germaine Dieterlen

as herself

Crew

Director
  • Jean Rouch

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Thematic Analysis

Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jean Rouch brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1977, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 27 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 61 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 41 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 380 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1977, when this film was released:
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Lyrical Rongdanis, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Saynatakuna: Masks and Transfigurations in Paukartambo and The River in Me explore similar territory, Hommage à Marcel Mauss. Germaine Dieterlen stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1977
  • Runtime: 27m

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