Trace No. 22

About This Movie

Trace No. 22 is one of those films that sits in the gray area of art and exploitation. It opens with a striking image of Marilyn Monroe, which immediately sets a tone that's both nostalgic and unsettling. Then, it pivots to a close-up of a woman's body, wriggling beneath layers of cellophane, creating a surreal and slightly claustrophobic atmosphere. The pacing is deliberate, almost hypnotic, forcing you to linger on each frame and consider the themes of objectification and desire. The practical effects are intriguing, if not a bit uncomfortable, and there's this unshakeable sense of voyeurism throughout the piece. It’s definitely a conversation starter for collectors interested in underground or avant-garde cinema.

Trace No. 22 has had a rather obscure distribution history, which adds to its allure among collectors. Its limited prints make it quite scarce, and it’s often discussed in the context of underground cinema. Interest in this film seems to be growing, particularly among those who appreciate the avant-garde and experimental movements of the 1960s.