Free Radicals
Synopsis
In this powerful abstract film with a soundtrack of African drum music, Lye scratched "white ziggle-zag-splutter scratches" on to black leather, using a variety of tools from saw teeth to arrow heads. The first version of the film won a major award at the International Experimental Film Festival Held in Brussels in 1958 in association with the World's Fair. Stan Brakhage described the film as "an almost unbelievably immense masterpiece".
Release History & Theatrical Window
Brussels World's Fair
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Len Lye
- Original Title
- Free Radicals
- Country of Origin
- New Zealand, United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- No Language
- Runtime
- 5m
- Production Studios
- New Zealand Film Commission
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Len Lye
Department Leadership Roster
Len Lye
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Free Radicals.
Featured In Curated Collections
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National Film Registry
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Frequently Asked Questions About Free Radicals
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Free Radicals about?
In this powerful abstract film with a soundtrack of African drum music, Lye scratched "white ziggle-zag-splutter scratches" on to black leather, using a variety of tools from saw teeth to arrow heads. The first version of the film won a major award at the International Experimental Film Festival Held in Brussels in 1958 in association with the World's Fair. Stan Brakhage described the film as "an almost unbelievably immense masterpiece".
Who directed Free Radicals?
Free Radicals was directed by Len Lye.
Who stars in Free Radicals?
The principal cast of Free Radicals includes Not specified.
When was Free Radicals released and how long is it?
Free Radicals was released in 1958 with a total runtime of 5m.