Hollis Frampton

Definition

Hollis Frampton was an influential American experimental filmmaker, photographer, and theorist known for his innovative works in the realm of avant-garde cinema. His films often explored the nature of time, perception, and the medium of film itself, contributing significantly to the slow cinema movement through their contemplative pacing and minimalistic narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hollis Frampton's most famous work, 'Zorns Lemma' (1970), is a structural film that uses a series of images and words to explore perception and memory.
2. Frampton was deeply influenced by his background in photography, which shaped his visual style and emphasis on the still image within his films.
3. He was a key figure in the formation of the 'New American Cinema' movement in the 1960s and 1970s, advocating for artistic freedom in film production.
4. Frampton's theoretical writings, particularly 'Notes on the Cinematographic Image,' explore the relationship between time, memory, and the act of viewing film.
5. His engagement with slow cinema can be seen in his deliberate pacing and emphasis on sensory experience, prompting audiences to reflect on their own perceptions while watching.

Review Questions

• How did Hollis Frampton's work contribute to the principles of slow cinema?
  • Hollis Frampton's work is a cornerstone of slow cinema due to its emphasis on long takes, minimal action, and thoughtful pacing. Films like 'Zorns Lemma' invite viewers to immerse themselves in the visual experience rather than be driven by a conventional narrative. This approach aligns with slow cinema's goal of encouraging contemplation and deeper engagement with the film's themes and imagery.
• In what ways did Frampton's background in photography influence his filmmaking style?
  • Frampton's background in photography significantly shaped his filmmaking by instilling a strong appreciation for composition, stillness, and the interplay of light and shadow. His films often resemble photographic sequences that explore time and perception in similar ways as still images. This unique perspective allowed him to create films that prioritize visual aesthetics and sensory experiences over conventional storytelling.
• Evaluate Hollis Frampton's impact on experimental film theory and how it relates to contemporary cinema practices.
  • Hollis Frampton's impact on experimental film theory is profound, as he challenged traditional notions of narrative and visual storytelling through his innovative techniques. His exploration of time, memory, and perception has influenced contemporary filmmakers who embrace similar themes in their works. By integrating elements of slow cinema into modern practices, Frampton's legacy continues to resonate with filmmakers seeking to create immersive experiences that provoke thought and reflection among audiences.

Related terms

Experimental Film: A genre of film that emphasizes artistic expression over commercial viability, often breaking traditional narrative structures and utilizing unconventional techniques.

Slow Cinema: A style of filmmaking characterized by long takes, minimal action, and a focus on atmosphere and contemplation, inviting viewers to engage with the film at a deliberate pace.

Image-Text Theory: An interdisciplinary approach that examines the relationship between visual images and written text, often applied in analyzing Frampton's work where he juxtaposed images and language.