The Magick Lantern Cycle: Scorpio Rising April 20, 2013

One of the most influential filmmakers of the 20th Century, Kenneth Anger’s work has inspired Gus Van Sant, Guy Maddin, David Lynch and Martin Scorsese, who has called him “without a doubt, one of our greatest artists.” His cinematic arabesques are intended as alchemical rituals, designed to evoke profound change in the viewer through the uses of montage, music and archetypal symbol. Two programs showcase Anger’s classic films along with new work not available on DVD. The homoerotic films, including Anger’s pioneering Fireworks, which Jean Cocteau praised as “coming from that beautiful night from which emerge all true works”, the hermaphroditic dreamscape of Eaux d’Artifice, and Scorpio Rising, a rapturous celebration of “Thanatos in chrome and black leather and bursting jeans.” Special support provided by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Dr. Anger will appear between screenings to discuss his work.