Dear rt,
Thank You, Thank you!! Your review means so much to me! What an honor to recieve such a "rave" from our own resident film critic. You see directly into the heart of my intent for this video and have articulated my vision so beautifully!
Yes, indeed....music has a powerful effect upon our perception and emotions. I've always been intrigued by how music in film can elicit "feelings" in the audience that would not be there without that particular musical melody or greatly altered by a completely different score. Case in point...Gustavo's score is absolutely brilliant in it's sparse, haunting quality and as such it perfectly matches Ang's vision for the film as a meditation of hidden longings and unspoken feelings.
The first time I saw BBM, I couldn't feel much. I felt numb. I admired the story, the screenplay, the direction, the acting, the cinematography, the score...but not one tear was shed. Yes, I was moved, but felt "suppressed" by the film itself. It wasn't until the next day...did that suppression ease and the film hit me in the gut (and heart) with such a primal force I was completely overwhelmed with grief and love for these characters (and this movie).
This experience got me to thinking how BBM would have "hit" me had the score been different...same movie, different score...perhaps a more epic score that conveyed the romantic sweep and tragedy of love, longing and loss.
The first time I heard "Renouncement" (2 years ago) I was moved to tears. I couldn't explain why...it was completely irrational, yet the composition touched something deep, profound and yes..."suppressed" in me and allowed those hidden feelings to surface. Well, the same could be said for "Brokeback Mountain"...but it worked it's magic in a completely opposite way. Ang's masterful direction (and Gustavo's score) did not allow me to release the suppressed feelings the film had elicited within. And THAT, I believe.. is why this film has such power over us (me)..because it "stirs things up" within us but doesn't allow us to fully release those feelings, thus leaving us haunted and compelled to return to it (the movie) over and over seeking resolution and healing. Gustavo's sparse guitar score is key to that phenomenon.
After seeing BBM several times I pulled out the Michael Hoppe CD and listened to "Renouncement" with new ears. I was stunned by how the piece brought up very specific scenes of the film within my mind's eye. Even more surprising was how the music allowed those feelings the film had elicited to re-surface and be healed/released. Thus my "vision" for this music video was born.
I'm thrilled that so many people are responding to the video in such a postive (and perhaps healing) manner. Much credit is due to Katie for her remarkable editing talents in bringing my vision to life.
Thanks again rt!