Watch Multiple Sidosis

Multiple Sidosis is a 1970 experimental film by filmmaker and self-taught filmmaker Sid Laverents. The film tells the story of a man named Sid who has multiple personalities, and the different personas he takes on in his daily life. Sid Laverents not only stars in the film but he also wrote, directed, edited, and composed the soundtrack for it. The film begins with an introduction from Sid himself, in which he expresses his excitement about the film and the many different personas he portrays throughout its duration. He promises the audience that they will see a wide range of characters and emotions that he says are all part of who he is.

The film is shot in black and white, and it begins with Sid in a living room set, playing multiple instruments at once. This sets the tone for the rest of the film, which features a lot of multi-layered visuals and soundscapes. Each of the personas that Sid takes on has a distinct voice and musical style, and he often sings about his experiences in character.

Throughout the film, we see Sid portray a wide range of personalities, such as a weary old man, a flirtatious young woman, and even an animated frog. Each of these personas is unique, and Sid expertly portrays each one with great range and nuance. The various identities blend together to create a beautiful and cohesive portrait of a complex individual.

One of the most impressive aspects of Multiple Sidosis is the technical skill that went into making it. Sid seamlessly appears on screen with multiple versions of himself, and the various characters he portrays interact with one another in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally impactful. The use of split-screen and other techniques create a feeling of chaos and confusion that beautifully reflect the different personas that Sid portrays.

The film also features beautiful scenes of nature, such as a babbling brook or a rustling tree, which act as counterpoints to the chaos unfolding on screen. These moments of peace and tranquility serve as a reminder that despite the many voices and identities within Sid, there is also a sense of unity and harmony within him as well.

Another notable aspect of the film is the use of music. Sid's various personas all have musical styles that are distinct from one another, yet they all come together to create a beautiful and cohesive soundtrack. Sid's musical talents are on full display throughout the film, and his lyrics and melodies are both catchy and emotionally resonant. The songs he wrote for the film have become iconic, and are still enjoyed by fans of the movie over 50 years later.

Overall, Multiple Sidosis is a groundbreaking film that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in filmmaking. It is a beautiful and complex portrait of a complex individual, and its use of visuals, sound, and music all come together to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. Whether viewed as a novelty or a masterpiece, Multiple Sidosis is a film that cannot be forgotten.