H2O (1929 film)

Summary

H2O (1929) is a short silent film by photographer Ralph Steiner. It is a cinepoem showing water in its many forms.

H2O
Directed byRalph Steiner
Release date
  • 1929 (1929) (U.S.)
Running time
13 minutes
CountryUnited States
LanguagesSilent film
English intertitles

Through innovative camera techniques and editing, "H2O" captures the element of water in its various forms, from tranquil lakes and flowing rivers to cascading waterfalls and crashing waves. The film immerses viewers in a visual journey, revealing the beauty and power of this essential element.

"H2O" was created outside narrative structure, opting instead for a poetic and impressionistic approach to storytelling. It invites viewers to contemplate the intrinsic qualities of water and its significance in the natural world.

"H2O" is a landmark in experimental filmmaking, showcasing the artistic potential of cinema as a medium for exploring elemental themes and abstract concepts.[1]

In 2005, H2O was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".[2][3]

The film can be seen on the Library of Congress web site.[1]

References edit

  1. ^ Jacobs, Lewis (1947). "Experimental Cinema in America: (Part One: 1921-1941)". Hollywood Quarterly. 3 (2): 111–124. doi:10.2307/1209356. ISSN 1549-0076.
  2. ^ "Librarian of Congress Adds 25 Films to National Film Registry". Library of Congress. Retrieved October 13, 2020.
  3. ^ "Complete National Film Registry Listing". Library of Congress. Retrieved October 13, 2020.

External links edit

  • H2O at IMDb  
  • H2O at AllMovie
  • H2O at UbuWeb
  • H2O essay by Daniel Eagan in America's Film Legacy: The Authoritative Guide to the Landmark Movies in the National Film Registry, A&C Black, 2010 ISBN 0826429777, pages 166-167 [2]