Begotten

Begotten
Directed by	E. Elias Merhige
Written by	E. Elias Merhige
Produced by	E. Elias Merhige
Starring	Brian Salzberg, Donna Dempsey, Stephen Charles Barry
Cinematography	E. Elias Merhige
Edited by	E. Elias Merhige
Music by	Evan Albam
Release date	1990
Running time	72 minutes
Country	United States
Language	Silent

Begotten is a 1990 American experimental film directed, produced, and written by E. Elias Merhige. The film is known for its disturbing imagery, lack of dialogue, and unconventional narrative. It features a unique visual style, characterized by its high-contrast black-and-white cinematography, which was achieved through painstaking frame-by-frame processing.

Plot

The film opens with a harrowing scene featuring a character known as "God Killing Himself." The narrative then transitions to focus on "Mother Earth," who emerges from the remains of God. She brings forth a son, "Son of Earth – Flesh on Bone," and the remainder of the film details their interactions with a group of nomadic figures and the ensuing brutal and surreal events.

Themes and Interpretation

Begotten deals with themes of creation, destruction, and the cyclical nature of existence. The film is often interpreted as a commentary on the human condition and the fundamental aspects of life and death. Its abstract and symbolic content allows for multiple interpretations, making it a subject of study and discussion in film theory and philosophy.

Production

The production of Begotten was notably rigorous, with Merhige handling many aspects of the filmmaking process. The distinctive visual style was created by re-photographing, scratching, and manipulating strips of film, which contributed to the movie's eerie and otherworldly atmosphere.

Reception

Upon its release, Begotten received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual style and originality but were divided on its accessibility and narrative coherence. The film has since gained a cult following and is appreciated for its avant-garde approach and its influence on later experimental filmmakers.

Legacy

Begotten has influenced a range of visual artists and filmmakers who are interested in the boundaries of the film medium. Its impact is particularly noted in the realms of horror and experimental cinema, where it continues to be referenced for its innovative techniques and its exploration of existential themes.

See also

• Experimental film
• Horror film
• E. Elias Merhige