Absence of Satan

About This Movie

So, Absence of Satan is this curious piece from 1985 that feels almost like a fever dream. It starts with this stunning woman, her scream piercing through the silence, and then we have Paul Newman just casually munching on a salad. The pacing is all over the place, but that’s what makes it intriguing, right? It’s like George Barber's Scratch works are a playground where he experiments with not just visuals but also sound and atmosphere. The juxtaposition of Newman’s mundane action with surreal edits, like the car door slamming cut with helicopter shots, creates this unsettling vibe. It's a real exploration of cinematic language, and the practical effects are surprisingly engaging for the time, giving it a raw edge.

This film is somewhat of a rarity among collectors, especially for those into experimental cinema. The home video releases are limited, and the VHS tapes that surface tend to command attention due to their scarcity. The film’s distinctive approach makes it a talking point among collectors, and the unique blend of performance and practical effects can stir some interesting discussions at screenings.