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Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight

Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight (2023)

Nov 11, 2023 16m Documentary

"Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight" covers renowned American artist Betye Saar’s large-scale work “Drifting Toward Twilight”— commissioned by The Huntington Library, Art Museum, & Botanical Gardens — a site-specific installation that features a 17-foot-long vintage wooden canoe and found objects, including birdcages, antlers, and natural materials harvested by Saar from The Huntington’s grounds. This film renders a portrait of Betye's process at 96 while also reflecting on her life, career, and memories of Pasadena.

Directed by Kyle Provencio Reingold

Cast

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Betye Saar

as

Richard Pryor
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Richard Pryor

as

Sun Ra
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Sun Ra

as

Martin Luther King Jr.
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Martin Luther King Jr.

as

Angela Davis
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Angela Davis

as

Crew

Director
  • Kyle Provencio Reingold
Producer
  • Betye Saar
  • Kyle Provencio Reingold
  • Gloria Alvarez

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Thematic Analysis

Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight 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 Kyle Provencio Reingold 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 2023, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 16 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 45 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 459 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2023, when this film is released:
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: November 11, 2023
  • Runtime: 16m

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