23rd Psalm Branch

About This Movie

So, 23rd Psalm Branch, huh? It's a real interesting piece from the late '60s, directed by Stan Brakhage, who always had a unique take on film. This one's a departure from typical war narratives; he doesn’t show Vietnam directly, but the atmosphere is heavy with the weight of conflict. The pacing feels meditative—like you’re caught in a dream or a trance, and the visuals are just stunning, with Brakhage’s signature abstract style. It's a film that leaves a lot to interpretation, which is what makes it distinctive. The themes of war and mortality linger long after you watch it, and you can see Brakhage's intent to provoke thought rather than just deliver a message.

This film is somewhat obscure, a gem in the experimental film segment. It hasn’t seen a ton of re-releases, which makes any original prints quite sought after among collectors. If you find a copy, it’s usually in erratic condition given its age and the nature of distribution at the time. Interest continues to grow as viewers look for deeper meanings and connections to Brakhage’s broader body of work.