“A well-crafted and thought-provoking film with a meaningful purpose.”

Short Films Matter

REVIEWS

Short Films Matter – 2024

David Baeumler’s experimental film is a captivating philosophical journey that transports viewers through the marvels of travel, art, and adventure while seamlessly weaving in a metaphysical narrative. The film serves as a poignant reminder to eschew the superficial and embrace the profound beauty that unites us all on this planet. At its core, it urges audiences to cast aside the meaningless distractions and open their eyes and imaginations to the shared wonders of our world.

The fast-paced montage, predominantly set in various continental European cities, offers a visually stunning exploration of architecture, cityscapes, diverse cultures, and the vibrant tapestry of humanity. Kevin Silva’s evocative voice, emanating from a dated tape recorder, adds depth to the film’s narrative, guiding viewers through its intent with a thought-provoking message.

David Baeumler’s cinematography, presented in a deliberate 4:3 aspect ratio, showcases artistic prowess and experimentation, resulting in a visually arresting and intellectually stimulating experience. The film skillfully navigates the theme of human connection, emphasizing our commonality while transcending barriers like language.

In essence, Baeumler’s creation is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film with a meaningful purpose. It successfully merges artistry and philosophy, leaving a lasting impression that encourages reflection on the shared beauty that unites us all.

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Film Threat – March 3, 2005 – David Finkelstein

This short film, edited in a fast rhythm, shows footage of individuals and tourist sites in a variety of cities, mostly European. In the foreground of most of the shots is an old-fashioned, transistor style cassette recorder. Over a background of carnivalesque music, the voice of the tape recorder (played by Kevin Silva) acts as a philosophical tourguide, musing on the existential meanings of travel.

Baeumler has an eye for interesting shots, and a feel for creating an exciting rhythm though editing, making this film visually more interesting than the average travelogue film. The character of the “tape recorder” has a droll take on the multifarious spectacles of travel: pondering how the sights, sounds, and people of foreign cities are endlessly fascinating but ultimately incomprehensible. “We aren’t on this planet long enough to answer all the mysteries, and even if we were, what would the knowledge get us?” observes the tape recorder. “Understanding is like examining darkness with a flashlight,” he concludes. Despite differences between cultures, we are all connected through an “invisible network.”

“I Cannot Understand You” provides the enjoyable experience of a thrill ride through the spectacle of the world, guided by an agreeable philosophical object with a relaxed attitude towards intellectual inquiry.

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