"Submit to Me" (1985)
"Submit to Me" (1985), directed by Richard Kern, is a film that does not shy away from confronting the viewer with provocative and challenging content. As a part of the Cinema of Transgression movement, this short film delves into themes of power, control, and human darkness. While watching "Submit to Me," I found myself feeling both disturbed and intrigued, a testament to Kern's ability to create thought-provoking and discomforting cinema.
The plot revolves around a series of vignettes that showcase various characters in situations that explore power dynamics, submission, and the darker aspects of human desire. The film pushes boundaries with its graphic and confrontational content, forcing the viewer to question their own limits and consider the taboos that exist within society.
The acting in "Submit to Me" is raw and fearless, with each performer fully committing to the intensity of their roles. Their uninhibited portrayals lend a sense of realism to the film, making the subject matter all the more potent and challenging to process.
Kern's direction is unapologetically bold, utilizing low-budget production techniques to create an atmosphere that is both gritty and unsettling. The cinematography is purposely rough and unpolished, reinforcing the film's transgressive nature and adding to the viewer's sense of unease. The editing contributes to the film's disorienting effect, with jarring cuts and transitions that keep the audience on edge.
The film's lack of a traditional score heightens the sense of unease and discomfort, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the disturbing world that Kern has created. Instead, the film uses a mixture of unsettling ambient sounds and noise, which contribute to the overall atmosphere of unease and tension.
"Submit to Me" left me feeling uncomfortable yet intrigued, as it effectively challenged my perceptions of what cinema can explore and confront. The film's exploration of power, submission, and the darker aspects of human desire resonated with me, highlighting the potential for cinema to push boundaries and provoke thought.
While "Submit to Me" is not a film for everyone due to its graphic and explicit content, it serves as an important example of the Cinema of Transgression movement. It showcases how film can be used as a medium to challenge societal norms and make audiences question their own boundaries and beliefs.
In conclusion, "Submit to Me" is a daring and provocative work that delves into the darker side of humanity, pushing the limits of cinema and forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. As a part of the Cinema of Transgression, this film is a powerful reminder of the potential for cinema to challenge and provoke its audience, leaving a lasting impact on those who dare to experience its unsettling world.
