The Octopus

© La Pieuvre (Jean Painlevé, 1928)

The Octopus

French photographer and filmmaker Jean Painlevé learned about the octopus at the age of nine. The animal then inspired him to study zoology and eventually became the subject of his first public film in 1927.

The Octopus is a cinematic masterpiece that was restored in 2020. As a historical document, it not only depicts an utterly fascinating creature in all its splendour and mystery but also displays the infinite possibilities of the medium of film.

During Nacht van de Experimentele Film 2023, ArtCinemaOFFoff celebrates its 20th anniversary. The choreography of animal and human bodies and natural phenomena in their most sublime manifestations will take centre stage that evening.

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