The Absolute Film

Absolute film or “visual music” is a unique form of cinema that perfectly blends together the two Medias, film and music. Dr. William Moritz beautifully defines it as,  “The most unique thing that cinema could do is present a visual spectacle comparable to auditory music, with fluid, dynamic imagery rhythmically paced by editing, dissolving, superimposition, segmented screen, contrasts of positive and negative, color ambiance and other cinematic devices.” The first Absolute film was created early in the 20^th century as artists would simply paint on the film stock frame by frame to create images that would rhythmically match the music or sounds being played. After watching some of the examples Moritz provides in his writing, it is truly unbelievable the amount of meticulous work the artist must have put in to create these films. In fact the complexity and difficulty of these films often forced artist to completely abandon this art form for example. At a large Absolute Film screening of some of the best artist, “Hans Richter’s 30-second “Film is Rhythm” had been listed on the program, but when Richter realized the scope and complexity of Ruttmann and Eggeling’s films, he withdrew his little test.” While absolute film is quite an odd genre it directly influences cinema around the world. One movie in particular that you can see direct correlation would be Disney’s “Fantasia” in particular Mickey Mouse’s sorcerer’s apprentice scene. The striking composition of the orchestra accompanied by the visual of Mickey directing a band of mops reminds the viewer how incredibly important rhythm is in not only music but also film.