Tender Buttons

About This Movie

Tender Buttons (1985) is a fascinating dive into the world of Gertrude Stein's literary vision, transformed into a visual experience. The film feels like a slow, deliberate stroll through a dreamscape where ordinary objects, particularly house plants, pulse with life and vibrancy. There’s a rhythm to its pacing—sometimes languid, sometimes abrupt—that mirrors the cubist nature of the visuals. The themes of lesbian fellowship are subtly woven into this surreal tapestry, creating a sense of camaraderie amid decay and ruin. It’s a film that invites contemplation, with practical effects that enhance the dreamlike quality. There’s an intimacy here, a warmth that contrasts with the ash-strewn backdrop. It’s not for everyone, but those who get it might find themselves pondering its depths long after the credits roll.

Surreal exploration of everyday objects.Unique interpretation of Stein's work.Themes of fellowship and decay.