meddlecore Review of Elephant

Elephant (1989 TV Movie)

"The single, most radical, television film ever made, both politically and aesthetically!"

[10/10 · 22 October 2005]

What a brilliant film! It's been said that this is, "The single, most radical, television film ever made, both politically and ascetically!" Right from the get-go Clarke creates a setting of tension as we find ourselves following a man, unknowing of what is about to occour. We soon find out what we are about to witness- a number of pre-meditated murders in Northern Ireland- but do not know for what reasons. In this film Clarke pseudo-documents the most ugly social aspect of society in the most beautiful fashion. I would have to say that this is one of his most artistic films, in which he succeeds in, not only keeping the mood, but also creating a visually appealing masterpiece. Clarke takes us through a number of situations in which we either begin by following the killer or the victim. The fact that we are unaware of which we are following at the beginning of each new segment allows Clarke to maintain a mood of tension throughout the entire film, while also preventing things from becoming too predictable. One effective technique that he utilizes, is that he makes us take part in the killing. We witness the killings from the perspective of the killers, and are then forced to become onlookers of the pre-meditated crimes, reminding us that, though filmed very beautifully, we are witnessing a very ugly part of human nature. The realism of the scenes contribute to the overall mood of the film. Some scenes were especially affective in creating feelings of tension and unease, as we know something is going to happen, but when? And by whom? Remains unclear. These scenes tended to be some of the most memorable, including the football scene and the double murder by shotgun in the upper level apartment. All this considered, I would have to agree with the quote mentioned at the beginning, that this is definitely one of the most radical films, politically and ascetically, ever made for television. As I could not imagine such a film being played on television these days without evoking a dramatically angry response from most conservative viewers. But you have to remember that this film was meant to evoke a response, both within ourselves, and in turn within society, and it succeeds in doing so. I would definitely recommend this film for all mature viewers as it is both artistically appealing and entertaining. A definite 10 out of 10!!