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Customer Reviews of Cage / Cunningham

A Life Affirming Film on the Personal Practice of Art
Filmmaker Elliot Caplan followed artists John Cage and Merce Cunningham around the world, during the years between 1983 and 1991, documenting moments of relaxation, composition, rehearsal, and performance. He also sought out and then interviewed related visual artists: Robert Rauchenberg, Jasper Johns, Frank Stella, Nam June Paik - composers: David Tudor, Alvin Lucier, La Monte Young, Virgil Thompson, dancers: Carolyn Brown, Viola Farber and Rudolf Nureyev.

All of the material mentioned above, plus archival film footage dating back to 1944, was edited into a work featuring Mr. Caplan's slowly paced and considered view of his subjects living in the present moment. Choreographic sequences are allowed sufficient time on the screen, which permits the dance to speak directly to each viewer.

As one becomes immersed in the experience of "Cage/Cunningham", it may become apparent that creativity, as a way of life, functions as a deeply unifying focus of personal aim for those involved with this intimate film.

Mr. Cunningham relates: "Even after all these years, dance remains an unknown for me. It is still full of possibility. I am grateful for that". Cage goes on: "The professional musicians in Los Angeles don't consider my work to be music, but the dancers have no problem with understanding it. They consider my sounds to be useful".

For those new to the work of these two innovative artists, "Cage/Cunningham" will serve as a wonderful introduction. To those already familiar with their experimental output over the years, there is enough unique material in the film to engage with some quality viewing time. "Cage/Cunningham" is an important film on two revolutionary figures in the world of contemporary art. Don't miss it!

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A wonderful film about two of America's important artists.
This review comes a little late but...better late than never. It is a marvellous film, VERY John Cage and Merce Cunningham whose collaboration led to some inspirational work among the American avant garde. It covers most of their collaborative lives and introduces some superb archival footage. We see John Cage of his "Lectures on Indeterminacy in Modern Music" days and many extracts from Merce Cunningham's productions going way back.

The film suffers a little from being on VHS but picture quality and sound are good. I would sooner have this film like it is than not at all.

I should say that the film may not appeal to those averse to the avant garde and the compositional techniques of these masters, but for the fans of this genre, it's a must.