Watch NOTFILM

NOTFILM is a documentary that explores the making of Samuel Beckett's only screenplay, FILM, which was directed by Alan Schneider and starred Buster Keaton. The film is directed by Ross Lipman, who takes the audience on a journey into the history of FILM and its significance in the world of cinema. Throughout the movie, Lipman has conversations with several notable film scholars, including Kevin Brownlow and Judith Douw, who provide insight into the making of FILM and its impact on the film industry. Notably, the documentary is made up entirely of archival footage, allowing audiences to see snippets of FILM and rare behind-the-scenes footage of its production.

The main theme of NOTFILM is the exploration of the relationship between cinema and perception. This is conveyed through the analysis of FILM's structure and content, which explores the ways in which film can manipulate and distort our perceptions of reality. Lipman also touches upon Beckett and Schneider's collaboration, which he argues was a perfect combination of one of the world's most important playwrights and one of the most accomplished directors of his time.

A key aspect of NOTFILM is the presentation of the way in which Buster Keaton was cast in FILM. Keaton's involvement in the project was a turning point in both his career and his personal life. Lipman reveals that at the time of his casting, Keaton was in poor mental and physical health, and that participation in FILM was a way to keep him on track. This part of the documentary sheds light on the popular actor's personal struggles and the way in which the entertainment industry works to keep its talent producing.

In addition to exploring the relationship between FILM and perception, Lipman delves into the relationship between FILM and Beckett's other works. He draws parallels between FILM, Beckett's famous play Waiting for Godot, and the way in which both works reflect the existential and philosophical themes with which Beckett grappled throughout his life. Scholars on the film's creation add their own insights, giving the audience a better understanding of Beckett's intentions with FILM.

Besides examining FILM's own impact as a work of art, the documentary gives insight into the relationship between art and the audience. Viewers are presented with an array of opinions on FILM's meaning, highlighting the subjective nature of the relationship between art and viewer. This theme is reflected in the main narrative of NOTFILM, which is so much more than just a behind-the-scenes look at FILM.

Overall, NOTFILM is a fascinating and in-depth exploration of the complicated relationship between cinema and perception. It excels at exploring the impact of FILM not only on the film industry but on the works of Beckett and the way art can impact individuals. With rare footage and interviews with prominent scholars, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the relationship between art and perception.

NOTFILM is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 81.