MANHATTA
This 1920-21 collaboration between photographer Paul Strand and painter/photographer Charles Sheeler is considered to be the first avant-garde film produced in the United States. The film presents a day in the life of New York interspersed with excerpts from Walt Whitman’s poems. Camera movement is kept to a minimum, making us acutely aware that each frame is a carefully composed composition.
The original negative of the film was lost and only one 35mm print is known to have survived. Due to difficulties encountered during production and improper handling over the years, that print contains technical imperfections. This edition of the film was meticulously restored using the best digital technology, while staying as true as possible to the aesthetic of the original film.
NEW YORK TIMES
“Avant-Garde 1920 Vintage, Is Back in Focus.”
FILM COMMENT
“Don’t Look Back: Celluloid connoisseur Bruce Posner explains his Manhatta project—and extols the digital future.”
GUARDIAN
“A new look at old New York. Film-restoration expert Bruce Posner to present two lost artifacts of New York filmmaking."
Exhibitions & Screenings Contact:
FILMMAKERS SHOWCASE
Skype: bruce.posner99
bcposner@gmail.com
