The first of a trilogy by director Godfrey Reggio, “Koyaanisqatsi” is a gorgeous, visually stunning collection of photographs and expertly captured shots of movement and chaos (for instance, buildings imploding in slow motion set to operatic, overwhelming ambient music) that manages to cast a spell over its viewer nearly from its first few seconds. It’s the type of art work that probably plays exceptionally well in a museum or in IMAX to display a snapshot of humanity and the natural world that surrounds us, and our efforts to mend the two over the development of our shared current civilization. Fans of sociology, art, history, music and film will find plenty to swoon over among the many stunning artistic achievements Reggio’s visual manifesto manages to accomplish in less than ninety minutes.
Rating: ★★★★★ (out of 5)
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