Tribute to Ken Russell (Camp not Dead)
Women In Love (1969), Great Britain, 131'
The battle of the sexes and relationships among the elite of Britian's industrial Midlands in the 1920s. Gerald Crich and Rupert Berkin are best friends who fall in love with a pair of sisters Gudrun, a sculptress and Ursula Brangwen, a schoolteacher. Rupert marries Ursula, Gerald begins a love affair with Gudrun, and the foursome embarks upon a Swiss honeymoon. But the relationships take markedly different directions, as Russell explores the nature of commitment and love. Will Rupert and Ursula learn to give themselves to each other? Why the more withdrawn Gerald cannot, finally, connect with the demanding and challenging Gudrun?
The Devils (1971), Great Britain, 111'
The film is murky, uncompromising and blasphemous, yet brilliant, and equally current today as 40 years ago. Against the background of the 17th century France with its Huguenots and Cardinal Richelieu unfolds a story of a priest, an apostate who bears witness to his faith by suffering - pain and bliss - Urbain Grandiera. When the defiant priest breaks celibacy vow a scandal erupts, causing dire consequences. Under the veneer of blasphemy Russell displays two contradictory drives -the eternal struggle of humankind to attain freedom, and their attempt to suppress it.
Tommy (1975), Great Britain, 111’
A famous adaptation of the rock opera by legendary British band The Who, and a real treat for music fans. When, as a result of trauma 9 year-old Tommy loses hearing, his therapy becomes playing pinball and very soon he excels at it. From now on the real adventure begins! He will have to face Wizard (Elton John), then he will meet Queen (Tina Turner) and Preacher (Eric Clapton). All this is excellently choreographed, shown in the glow of stage lights and accompanied by the music of The Who!
Lisztomania (1975), Great Britain, 103’
Colourful and extravagant biography of Franz Liszt, in which the facts of the composer's life are pushed into the background. It is so, due to the original vision of Russell, who is very fond of such biographical adaptations. Apart from Liszt, we will see Richard Wagner portrayed as a vampire, and Ringo Starr playing the Pope. Brimming humor and Rick Wakeman’s (legendary keyboard player in the band YES) music make an electrifying impression.
Altered States (1980), USA, 102’
Bold and far-reaching science fiction feat of imagination; it is a William Hurt film debut. The main protagonist Dr. Jessup (Hurt) decides to carry out a paramedics experiment, the object of which is he himself. Fascinated with chemicals used by ancient tribes, he decides to take them and closes himself in a special chamber. The result of this risky game will be an astral journey to the edge of consciousness, trip that would be worthy of Dave Bowman’s from the "Space odyssey". Only the most resistent viewers will save their neck...
Crimes of passion (1983), USA, 107’
In this film, Russell superbly guided the leading actress - Kathleen Turner who played a double role. By day, she is a known and respected designer; no one knows that after dusk, she becomes an exclusive prostitute named China Blue. Double life always poses risk, which Blue quickly comprehends. She meets a demonic cleric, whose obsessive goal is not saving her soul, but annihilating the sinful flesh. Crimes of passion is a dangerous game verging on erotism, fervent faith and violence.
The Gothic (1986), USA, 87’
This film is for everyone who has ever thought about (un) true story of Frankenstein. One historic night, in Lord Byron's estate, Mary Shelley brings the monster to life. This is not the comedy of Mel Brooks, but a very serious lunacy in darkness, a bad dream interwoven with sex fantasies. That is Russell all over.
Salome's Last Dance (1988), Great Britain, 89’
Most of the action is a verbatim performance of Oscar Wilde's play 'Salome'. It is year 1893. Wilde and his lover Lord Alfred Douglas arrive late on Guy Fawkes Days at their friends brothel, where they are treated to a suprise staging of a play. All the roles are played by prostitutes or their clients. In fact, Everyone plays a double role...
