The Texture Of Falling

The Texture of Falling is Maria Allred's 2018 experimental drama that transcends characters, timeframes, and conventional narrative boundaries. Starring Benjamin Farmer, Damien Genardi, and Patrick D. Green, this thought-provoking film revolves around the complex intertwining narratives of two ambitious women in Portland, who find themselves in the thrall of powerful men not quite within their control, while delving into the deeper intricacies of power and dominance, the fear of autonomy, the nature of desire, and the tension between reality and illusion.

The film centralizes the narratives of its two powerful female characters - Louisa (played by Julie Webb), an up and coming filmmaker, and Sylvia (played by Maria Allred), a pianist undergoing an existential crisis. The acting by Webb and Allred is compelling and lends life to their characters; they flawlessly embody their characters' emotional value and vivacity, creating a shared empathy with the audience.

The movie opens with Louisa, a woman who is determined to break free from the dominant ideologies of filmmaking and has her unique perspective on it. However, as she navigates through the circuitous process of creation and realization of her artistic vision, she begins to blur the lines between her life and art. This includes an intense, tumultuous relationship with Jamie (Benjamin Farmer), a possessive older man who becomes entwined in her life off and on the film set.

On the other hand, Sylvia, a classically trained pianist, grapples with an existential crisis. She encounters an enigmatic photographer (Patrick D. Green) who becomes the catalyst for her exploration of deeper truths about herself and her art. At the same time, she is pursued by a mysterious man, Michael (Damien Genardi), leading her into a world of fantasy and mystery. The film continually blurs reality and illusion, leaving viewers questioning which elements are part of the "real" world and which are rooted within each character's imagination.

The Texture of Falling is not your typical narrative; it verges on the edge of reality and indulges in different representation systems. Many scenes are deliberately abstract - playing with the audience's perception of time and space, obscured by a structural interplay between dream, hallucination, reality, and movie-making. This abstract nature of the movie provides an immersive experience for the audience, enveloping them in a realm of nuanced emotional exploration.

An essential element of the movie is its striking visage and artistry - it paints a vivid picture with its cinematography and aesthetic. The innovative use of color, light, and shadow in the movie creates a beguiling atmosphere that draws the viewer into the world of the characters and their experiences. Cinematic shots of Portland's atmospheric backdrop often feel like characters in their own right, embodying the contrasting moods and emotions of the narrative.

The film also contains myriad layers of sound score and ambient noise that accompany the stunning visuals perfectly. It uses a tactful combination of classical music, electronic soundscape, and everyday chatter, heightening the overall sensory experience. Every character, their dialogues, the scenarios are intertwined with myriad emotions, adding depth to the narrative.

The Texture of Falling is an intriguing exploration of the power dynamics within romantic and creative relationships, the struggle for autonomy, and the fragility of reality. Moreover, the film draws attention to the fine line between art and life, exploring how creativity can consume, transform, and ultimately enlighten us. The viewers are left to find their meanings and interpretations of the story, giving them a range of perspectives to ponder upon.

Equally thought-provoking and disturbing, The Texture of Falling carefully weaves a tale of love, power, art, and mystery. Those who cherish arthouse cinema or intricate storylines will find a deep appreciation for Maria Allred's daring cinematic work. Whether you're an arthouse aficionado or someone who merely enjoys experimental cinema, this film will incite reflection and scrutiny long after the credits roll.

The Texture of Falling is a cinematic odyssey that defies traditional storytelling norms and demands the viewer's active engagement. It tests the boundaries of conventional narrative, demanding the audience to question their perception of reality, art, and their connections to it. By synchronizing two seemingly disparate stories, the film poses daunting questions about the nature of existence and reality, creating a metaphorical texture that is sure to stick with audience members long after the movie has ended. The Texture of Falling is a journey into the creative mind's depths and a striking account of the human experience.