Review of Into Great Silence (2005) by Brett R — 22 Jun 2007

This documentary truly pushes the boundaries of modern filmmaking. If you are familiar with director Terrence Malick (The Thin Red Line) and his adherence to aesthetic thematic elements, you will truly enjoy this film.

Philip Groening has made a movie that (after much evaluation) truly is unique. Dialogue is non existent, and silence is used to portray the profound beauty of everything the film encompasses. You must keep your mind open.

..this is unlike anything you have probably ever seen. Prepare yourself to witness a completely different realm of cinematic elegance...an elegance that again, pushes the boundraies of cinema...as well as viewers patience which, is my only complaint about the film.

The movie spans over almost 3 hours. Refrain from eating any kind of big meal before you view. Remember, open your mind and try to embrace everything that Groening is offering: a truly unique, and groundbreaking film experience.

Unlike most film, Groening rejects the use of music for thematic and emotional support. Instead, he uses silence and aesthetic elegance to create a film that every modern film lover truly must see. Don't give up (like half of my theater did), try to stay awake, and focus on the bigger, broader message and representation.

Groening has turned documentary filmmaking into an expression of truly modern art. When you leave the theater, you will most likely kick yourself for spending $7 on a ticket. However...think about the film further.

..I guarantee a genuine, and new found appreciation will come about.