Descent

About This Movie

Descent (1975) is this intriguing short documentary from the NFB that really dives into the human experience and the depths of introspection. The tone feels raw, almost haunting, as you watch the visuals unfold, marrying stark imagery with deep, resonant themes of isolation and struggle. It's not flashy—there are no over-the-top effects here, but the atmosphere is thick, and the pacing has this almost rhythmic quality that pulls you in. You can sense the weight of each frame, giving it a distinctive edge that lingers with you after viewing. It’s a unique piece that showcases its era's filmmaking approach, capturing a certain starkness that’s hard to replicate.

Descent has a limited format history, primarily circulating in 16mm and later on VHS, which makes original prints somewhat scarce. Collectors often discuss its unique perspective and the raw emotionality it presents, although it doesn't draw as much focus as other NFB works. Interest in this film is definitely niche, appealing to those who appreciate short documentaries that push boundaries in storytelling and visual expression.