Commentary
Synopsis
“Made just before Around & About, this work is something of a ‘manifesto in jest’ against television…. I’m a sit-in viewer looking slightly up at the screen making simple gestures into the camera. The mood is ambiguous as I seem to be watching a mirror, covering my face, reaching out to the camera, obstructing my head with a harsh (interrogator’s) lamp, and maybe more. The image, distorted through a fisheye lens, gives the impression of a concave monitor, as if the whole act were seen through a peephole or pinhole camera. In some sense I ‘play’ both sides of the screen—performer and viewer attempting to ‘connect’ either way. As ‘commentary’ it’s two-way, making it also a commentary on commentary.”
Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1980
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Gary Hill
- Original Title
- Commentary
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Gary Hill
Department Leadership Roster
Gary Hill
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Commentary.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Commentary
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Commentary about?
“Made just before Around & About, this work is something of a ‘manifesto in jest’ against television…. I’m a sit-in viewer looking slightly up at the screen making simple gestures into the camera. The mood is ambiguous as I seem to be watching a mirror, covering my face, reaching out to the camera, obstructing my head with a harsh (interrogator’s) lamp, and maybe more. The image, distorted through a fisheye lens, gives the impression of a concave monitor, as if the whole act were seen through a peephole or pinhole camera. In some sense I ‘play’ both sides of the screen—performer and viewer attempting to ‘connect’ either way. As ‘commentary’ it’s two-way, making it also a commentary on commentary.”
Who directed Commentary?
Commentary was directed by Gary Hill.
Who stars in Commentary?
The principal cast of Commentary includes Not specified.
When was Commentary released and how long is it?
Commentary was released in 1980 with a total runtime of 1m.