A night of dreamy surrealist noir featuring Maya Deren’s Meshes of the Afternoon (1943) and David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive (2001).
RMIT Culture will present a double noir feature on Tuesday 18 July, showcasing two acclaimed films that may have flown under the radar of many movie enthusiasts.
The line-up includes the experimental short film 'Meshes of the Afternoon' (1943) by Maya Deren, and neo-noir 'Mulholland Drive' (2001) by David Lynch. Deren's directorial debut and starring role in 'Meshes', alongside her former husband Alexander Hammid, gained critical recognition for its surrealistic dream sequences. Lynch's 'Mulholland Drive', originally intended as a TV series, transformed into a highly acclaimed feature film that depicts a dark, sinister portrayal of California.
Both films have recently gained recognition in 'Sight and Sound's 2022 Greatest Films of All Time' list, ranking among the top 20. 'Meshes' has secured a position in the top 100 for the first time, debuting at an impressive #16, highlighting Deren's contribution to cinema. 'Mulholland Drive', previously included in the top 100, has now skyrocketed to #8.
These two films have sparked numerous interpretations of their meaning and symbolism, making them highly thought-provoking and fascinating pieces of art. To provide context for both first-time viewers and fans alike, RMIT academic Alexia Kannas will introduce the films.
Image Credit: Still from Meshes of the Afternoon, courtesy NACG/FMC
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.
