Underscan
Synopsis
In Underscan, time and the visual image are compressed. A series of photographs of my Aunt Ethel's home in New Bedford, MA had been videotaped, and re-videotaped while being underscanned. (The underscanning device is a structural framework particular only to video; it compresses the picture so that the edges can be seen precisely; it does away with the variation that occurs between monitors in the amount of the image which is visible.) Because of this underscanning process, each static photo image, as it appears, changes from regular to elongated to compressed or vice versa. Excerpts from letters from my aunt spanning 10 years are condensed into 8 minutes of my voice-over audio. Certain yearly occurrences repeat in an auditory rhythm, coinciding with the cycle of yearly changes.
Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1974
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Nancy Holt
- Original Title
- Underscan
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 9m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Nancy Holt
Department Leadership Roster
Nancy Holt
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Underscan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Underscan
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Underscan about?
In Underscan, time and the visual image are compressed. A series of photographs of my Aunt Ethel's home in New Bedford, MA had been videotaped, and re-videotaped while being underscanned. (The underscanning device is a structural framework particular only to video; it compresses the picture so that the edges can be seen precisely; it does away with the variation that occurs between monitors in the amount of the image which is visible.) Because of this underscanning process, each static photo image, as it appears, changes from regular to elongated to compressed or vice versa. Excerpts from letters from my aunt spanning 10 years are condensed into 8 minutes of my voice-over audio. Certain yearly occurrences repeat in an auditory rhythm, coinciding with the cycle of yearly changes.
Who directed Underscan?
Underscan was directed by Nancy Holt.
Who stars in Underscan?
The principal cast of Underscan includes Not specified.
When was Underscan released and how long is it?
Underscan was released in 1974 with a total runtime of 9m.