«Koyaanisqatsi» means life out of balance. This documentary is a well photographed series of images captured of nature and man’s impact on the planet. The juxtaposition of the music with the scenic imagery causes confusion. The juxtaposition of the decaying cities and detonations/demolitions with the nature scenes of canyons, waterfalls, vast unsettled uncorrupted land. One of the most striking series of visuals is of the demolition of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project, derelict in fashion. Overpopulation and overcrowding and overstimulation is displayed. Traffic and rushing of people and cars are contrasted with images of natural serenity. The entire film is scored by Philip Glass, containing atmospheric bleeps and discordant melodies and rhythms. The music is awkward, to be completely honest, and gives off a strange and uncomfortable vibe throughout the movie. However, the documentary flows smoothly with majestic scenery and ambience and gorgeous emotion and portrayal. Koyaanisqatsi is strange, beautiful (the images, at least), shocking and (unfortunately to say) not enjoyable at moments. However, shining moments stick out, like when the beautiful skylines are shown. Also, the film seems to try too hard to be haunting, when it is truly confusing in its portrayal of “haunting.” The music is so jaded and dull and even creepy; something more melodic would contribute to the beauty of the video track. Even though the music is what makes the documentary “experimental,” it would be an overall better production if the music actually fit the mood of the differently emotional-charging videos.
The title accurately fits the entire documentary because it means a life out of balance. The videos are unbalanced, with most being strangely colorful. Even though the movie is considered a masterpiece and is listed as one of the great documentaries of all time, it barely seems interesting and catching to this audience.
The title accurately fits the entire documentary because it means a life out of balance. The videos are unbalanced, with most being strangely colorful. Even though the movie is considered a masterpiece and is listed as one of the great documentaries of all time, it barely seems interesting and catching to this audience.
Even though I have completely mixed feelings about this film, it is all for the viewer to decide
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