Review of Sebastiane (1976) by Peter B — 19 Dec 2007
Sebastiane follows the persecution and martyrdom of St. Sebastian, but the film has little to do with Christianity or history. The film contains many layers of meaning, all of which are concerned with the nature of the relationship of homosexuality to the rest of society.
The film is filled with moments of subtle and not so subtle homoeroticism, all of which climax with the murder of Sebastiane - an icon which has become associated with BDSM and homosexuality. This makes Jarman's choice of subject-matter readily apparent.
The fact that the film is actually shot completely in Vulgar Latin instead of english adds to a slightly distancing historical realism which draws the audiance into Jarman's world. It is beautifully shot and Sebastiane's voiceover gives the feeling that one could almost be watching a Terrence Malick film.
This review of Sebastiane (1976) was written by Peter B on 19 Dec 2007.
Sebastiane has generally received positive reviews.
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