Meshes of the Afternoon

About This Movie

So, 'Meshes of the Afternoon'—what a piece. Deren really dives into this surreal, dreamlike state, right? It’s like you’re wandering through her subconscious. The pacing is intentionally slow, almost hypnotic, which makes the strange imagery hit harder. The repetition of certain motifs, like that haunting flower and the shadowy figure, really captures this sense of dread and desire. Practical effects are super interesting—especially considering the time it was made. It’s not just about what you see, but how it makes you feel—this blend of fantasy and mystery pulls you into this existential spiral. Definitely a standout in experimental cinema, you can really see how Deren shaped the future of film.

Experimental filmSurreal imageryInfluence on future filmmakers