Trade Tattoo
Synopsis
Trade Tattoo went even further than Rainbow Dance in its manipulation of the Gasparcolor process. The original black and white footage consisted of outtakes from GPO Film Unit documentaries such as Night Mail. Lye transformed this footage in what has been described as the most intricate job of film printing and color grading ever attempted. Animated words and patterns combine with the live-action footage to create images as complex and multi-layered as a Cubist painting. Music was provided by the Cuban Lecuona Band. With its dynamic rhythms, the film seeks (in Lye’s words) to convey “a romanticism about the work of the everyday in all walks of life."
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Len Lye
- Original Title
- Trade Tattoo
- Country of Origin
- United Kingdom
- Spoken Languages
- No Language
- Runtime
- 5m
- Production Studios
- GPO Film Unit
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Len Lye
John Grierson
Department Leadership Roster
Len Lye
Director
John Grierson
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Trade Tattoo.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Tattoo
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Trade Tattoo about?
Trade Tattoo went even further than Rainbow Dance in its manipulation of the Gasparcolor process. The original black and white footage consisted of outtakes from GPO Film Unit documentaries such as Night Mail. Lye transformed this footage in what has been described as the most intricate job of film printing and color grading ever attempted. Animated words and patterns combine with the live-action footage to create images as complex and multi-layered as a Cubist painting. Music was provided by the Cuban Lecuona Band. With its dynamic rhythms, the film seeks (in Lye’s words) to convey “a romanticism about the work of the everyday in all walks of life."
Who directed Trade Tattoo?
Trade Tattoo was directed by Len Lye.
Who stars in Trade Tattoo?
The principal cast of Trade Tattoo includes Not specified.
When was Trade Tattoo released and how long is it?
Trade Tattoo was released in 1937 with a total runtime of 5m.