Hard Going At Film Festival (Press, 1 August 1983)

The Christchurch International Film Festival is in progress, showcasing a diverse selection of films. Among the highlights is "Diva," a thriller with an operatic setting. A noticeable trend at this year's festival is the emphasis on American films, such as "The King of Comedy" and "Diner," that audiences would typically expect to see in commercial releases. Additionally, there has been a significant number of sexually explicit films, particularly those restricted to festival audiences, raising concerns about the festival's purpose. Discussing the festival, Patrick McGuire from the New Zealand National Film Unit noted that many European films showcased have a degenerate quality, reflecting a more inward-looking and obsessive nature. The popularity of these films appears to contribute to financial gain for the festival, as they often receive multiple screenings, while more meaningful films are shown only once, suggesting a misalignment in the festival’s original intent to offer cultural enrichment. One of the more provocative films screened is "Querelle," directed by the renowned Rainer Werner Fassbinder. This film was noted for both its artistic ambition and its unsettling themes, and it marks Fassbinder's last work before his death at age 36 in June 1982. Accompanying "Querelle" was "The Wizard of Babylon," which highlighted the film's creation and included an interview with Fassbinder conducted shortly before he passed away. His condition during the interview evoked a poignant sense of melancholy connected to his artistic legacy. "Querelle," adapted from Jean Genet's 1947 novel, presents complex themes of sexuality, love, and domination, showcasing Genet's and Fassbinder's distinctive styles. Genet's background as a former prisoner who became a celebrated writer holds significance, as his works frequently addressed themes of isolation and the experience of marginalized individuals. Both artists, openly gay and unapologetic in their exploration of controversial material, sought to illuminate the struggles of society’s outcasts. Their collaboration on "Querelle" has been met with mixed reactions, from admiration to outright shock. The film's narrative dives into the lives of dockside characters, revealing a sordid world filled with vice and violence. Critics have described "Querelle" as both visually striking and aesthetically challenging, encapsulating the provocative essence of its creators. As the festival unfolds, it has prompted reflection on the types of films deemed suitable for such an event, questioning whether it should primarily serve as a platform for artistic exploration or commercial entertainment. The discussion surrounding "Querelle" and similar films embodies the ongoing dialogue about the role of film festivals in promoting meaningful cinema versus catering to the more sensationalist tastes of audiences.

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