Information
Synopsis
Information is an exercise in technological reflexivity, an early investigation of the material presence of the electronic medium. From a technical mistake, in which a videotape recorder tried to record itself, Viola constructed a study of electronic anarchy — a disintegrating and self-interrupting signal that perpetually reiterates itself. He writes: "Information is the manifestation of an aberrant electronic nonsignal passing through the video switcher in a normal color TV studio, and being retrieved at various points along its path. The resulting electronic perturbations affected everything else in the studio. After this error was discovered and traced back, it became possible to sit at the switcher as if it were a musical instrument and learn to 'play' this nonsignal."
Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1973
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Bill Viola
- Original Title
- Information
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 30m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Bill Viola
Department Leadership Roster
Bill Viola
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Information.
More Like Information
Recommended titles matching themes, cast, and genres.
Frequently Asked Questions About Information
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Information about?
Information is an exercise in technological reflexivity, an early investigation of the material presence of the electronic medium. From a technical mistake, in which a videotape recorder tried to record itself, Viola constructed a study of electronic anarchy — a disintegrating and self-interrupting signal that perpetually reiterates itself. He writes: "Information is the manifestation of an aberrant electronic nonsignal passing through the video switcher in a normal color TV studio, and being retrieved at various points along its path. The resulting electronic perturbations affected everything else in the studio. After this error was discovered and traced back, it became possible to sit at the switcher as if it were a musical instrument and learn to 'play' this nonsignal."
Who directed Information?
Information was directed by Bill Viola.
Who stars in Information?
The principal cast of Information includes Not specified.
When was Information released and how long is it?
Information was released in 1973 with a total runtime of 30m.