When the Pie Was Opened

About This Movie

So, 'When the Pie Was Opened' is one of those oddball 1941 documentaries that really stands apart in the war genre. I mean, you wouldn't typically think of wartime cookery being tackled with surrealism and avant-garde sound, but that's exactly what Len Lye did. The film takes a whimsical approach, with a mother trying to cheer up her daughter through the art of pie-making amidst the backdrop of wartime austerity. The pacing's quite unique, blending practical effects with unexpected humor. It’s all about the juxtaposition of the mundane and the surreal, which makes it a curious watch, even today. There’s this irreverent wit that’s so distinctly Lye—definitely a standout piece that doesn't fit the mold.

'When the Pie Was Opened' has seen a range of formats over the years, but it's still somewhat scarce, making it a point of interest for collectors. Its unique blend of war themes and surrealism marks it as a distinct piece of film history, especially in Len Lye's oeuvre. While not widely known, it has cultivated a niche following among those who appreciate experimental cinema from that era.