for anyone not aware of Jean Painlevé, he was a fore-runner of Jacques Cousteau and early master of the nature study, including undersea creatures. I think octopuses are astonishing so probably L’Amour des Pieuvres. I like Liquid Crystals (1978)- he was a serious scientist, with a fascination for extraordinary things. I first heard of him from Tony Rayn’s selection of The Seahorse (1934) in his top 10 in a poll
“Liquid Crystals” is my favorite, especialy with Yo La Tengo’s music. It’s such a mind freak, I would hate to watch that on shrooms or acid, I would probably be crying in a corner for the rest of the night.
Yes, pick it up. I didn’t know quite what to expect either but they are all great little short films. Buy it if you are really interested in nature or experimental/psychedelic shorts. They included this super old claymation short from like, the 1930’s (and it’s in color!) and is incredibly creepy and good at the same time.
Erik Villasenor
did any one buy the criterion’s release of Painleve’s 23 short films. I want to buy it but am a bit sceptacle. Is it worth the $31? also what do you think is Painleve’s best film, for me it’s the love life of the octopus but I also truly love the sea urchin.