Eraserhead (1977)
Art punk has a name, and it’s Lynch.
Presentation:
A lot of cinephiles think David Lynch’s masterpiece is Mulholland Drive, but I think it’s Eraserhead. This is David Lynch’s debut as an auteur, a wildly bold entrance into cinema. All things considered, I can’t think of a more iconic or bold self-introduction. Like how is this your introduction into cinema? Showcasing your most edgy work without reservation usually happens toward the end of your career. It’s like the WWE’s Undertaker level of entrance. This is one of the strongest art film body horrors and its innovation remains unmatched today. Lynch graduated from art school with legendary production designer Jack Fisk, and it’s pretty cool to see him pop up in this film as well. Lynch famously originally wanted to make art, but switched to filmmaking once he saw its vast potential. This is one of the creepiest, coolest, most bizarre films that remains surreal to this day. It’s gothic, grotesque, and certainly pushed the envelope of cinema through one film alone, arguably even more than Tim Burton’s entire career. What’s most impressive is he manages to find such a specific combination of weird details for maximum effect. As this is avant-garde cult art, the film will be metaphorical so expect a thematic mood piece rather than a cohesive story.
Conclusion:
If only Lynch continued to make films like this, I would praise him to no end. I’ve always thought Lynch was very art punk, though I’ve never seen anyone else describe him this way. He’s normally perceived as an uncanny surrealist, but this bold statement proves that he is and always has been an artist. Body horror may not be your thing, but that’s why he has all his other cult classics.
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