Temple Lodge Publishing Future Art of Cinema: Rudolf Steiners Vision

From Joseph Vogelsang and his mysterious peep-box to Hollywood blockbusters and Netflix, R.A. Savoldellis survey of cinema and film is based on practical experience he was once the enfant terrible of Swiss cinema and years of contemplation and study. He examines the difference between film as the hypnotic monster referred to by the Italian director Pier Paolo Pasolini, and the art of film that Rudolf Steiner aspired to. The author depicts the historical development of cinema from its origins, paying particular attention to science fiction from Star Wars to The Matrix and influential filmmakers such as Eric Rohmer, Andrei Tarkovsky and Pasolini. As a scholar of anthroposophy, Savoldelli gives a comprehensive assessment of Rudolf Steiners attitude to film. In addition to frequenting the silent cinema of his time, Steiner made several statements about the new artform in his lectures, letters and private discussions. The author examines and interprets these and complements them with commentary on Steiners attempt to produce a film on the theme of reincarnation and karma as well as his explorations with Jan Stuten of light-show art. Other topics in this penetrating study include: Basic philosophical stances in the pioneer period of media studies; Steiners prophetic warnings about a technocratic form of civilization that will destroy humanity; Nostalgia for the art-house cinema that emerged in the 60s; and The project discussed by Alexander Kluge and Andrei Tarkovsky for a film based on Rudolf Steiners From the Akashic Records. Anyone interested in the cinematic arts will find a treasure of stimulating ideas and new thought in this unique book. Autorid: Reto Andrea Savoldelli, Matthew Barton