Somersault

About This Movie

Somersault, directed by an unknown hand, is a fascinating dive into the playful manipulation of perspective. Steina cleverly utilizes a convex mirror within a glass cylinder, training her video camera to capture a 360-degree image of her surroundings, particularly her torso. The tone is experimental, filled with a sense of whimsy as she engages in gymnastics with her camera – it feels almost like a dance between artist and medium. The pacing is meditative, allowing the viewer to soak in the visuals while contemplating the relationship between body and space. It’s distinctive for how it turns the act of recording into a performative art, blurring the lines between the observer and what’s being observed.

This film can be elusive for collectors, often slipping through the cracks in various obscure distributions. Its scarcity stems from limited releases and a niche appeal, drawing interest from those who appreciate experimental video art. If you come across a copy, it might be worthwhile to snag it, as it often doesn’t last long in the hands of collectors who recognize its unique perspective on the medium.