No. 11: Mirror Animations

About This Movie

So, No. 11: Mirror Animations is a really interesting piece from 1956, blending Harry Smith's cut-up animation with the syncopated rhythms of Thelonious Monk's Mysterioso. The visuals are this wild collage of shapes and colors; it’s almost like a dream that keeps changing. The pacing? It's deliberate, almost hypnotic, letting the viewer get lost in the ebb and flow of both the visuals and Monk’s jazz. There’s a raw quality in the animation that feels spontaneous, like it was crafted in a moment of inspiration, which adds to its charm. It’s not your standard animation fare, and that’s what makes it stand out in the realm of experimental films.

No. 11: Mirror Animations is quite a rarity in the collector's market, often overshadowed by more mainstream works. It has seen limited releases, making original prints hard to come by. The mixing of animation and jazz is a niche that attracts a specific audience, increasing its appeal for collectors interested in avant-garde cinema.