Three Adaptation Studies

About This Movie

So, 'Three Adaptation Studies' is this intriguing three-part short from 1970, directed by someone we still don’t quite know. The film’s mood is experimental yet oddly engaging, with Vito Acconci at the center, reacting in ways that feel almost primal. 'Blindfold Catching' has this surreal, tense atmosphere as he's flinching from those off-screen rubber balls, making you really sense his vulnerability. Then you have 'Soap & Eyes', which turns into this tragicomic affair as Acconci throws soapsuds on his face, and you can’t help but chuckle at the absurdity. It's all about those raw, physical performances and the discomfort that comes from watching someone push their limits in such a quirky, tactile way. The pacing feels loose but intentional, creating a strange rhythm that lingers with you.

This film is a rare gem, with limited distribution over the years, making it a bit elusive for collectors. Most known copies are on obscure formats, and finding a decent print can be quite the hunt. Interest seems to be growing in more avant-garde works from this era, so if you come across it, it might be worth adding to your collection, especially for those who appreciate experimental cinema.