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Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp)

Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) (2022)

Sep 18, 2022 12m Drama

An ageing director commentates on a porno he directed 50 years ago, reminiscing on his relationship with the lead actor.

Directed by Peter Strickland

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Peter Strickland
Writer
  • Peter Strickland
Producer
  • Serena Armitage
  • Pietro Greppi

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Peter Strickland 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2022, 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 Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 12 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 40 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 171 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 1756 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2022, 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

While Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike American Beauty, which focuses more on action than character development, Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like 15 Years and The Blind Owl explore similar territory, Blank Narcissus (Passion of the Swamp) stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: September 18, 2022
  • Runtime: 12m

Where to Watch

MUBI

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