The Two-Backed Beast, or The Critic Makes the Film

About This Movie

So, 'The Two-Backed Beast, or The Critic Makes the Film' is this intriguing little gem, you know? It’s an experimental short that features Jonathan Rosenbaum, the film critic, as himself, chatting about a movie that’s purely fictional. What’s really fascinating is how director Peter Bull weaves together these interviews with the film Rosenbaum is describing. It creates this unique interplay between critique and filmmaking, leading to a kind of meta-narrative that’s rare. The pacing can feel a bit disjointed at times, but that only adds to its charm. The visual style is simple yet effective, and you can really sense the creativity involved in blending these two realities. It’s definitely not mainstream, but that’s what makes it distinctive.

This film is relatively obscure, which adds to its allure for collectors. It has seen limited distribution, primarily in niche circles, making original prints quite rare. There are a few bootlegs floating around, but true collectors will seek out the official releases. Interest is mostly from those who appreciate the avant-garde style and the interplay between critique and creation, making it a curious piece for anyone who enjoys the more esoteric side of cinema.