Review of The Holy Mountain (1973) by Zoran S — 06 Jul 2009

This is probably the best of Jodorowsky's early films. Here his ridiculous mixture of mysticism, misogyny, and literal minded shock tactics is much better stylized. The Holy Mountain surely has some of the most elaborate mise-en-scene you will ever see.

The film always looks amazing even when you are laughing at how silly it is. Also, Jodorowsky's attempt at social commentary in the film, its anti-capitalist and anti-illusionary message, doesn't seem heart-felt.

It is as if, having tried everything in his earlier films, finally decides to acknowledge that there is an outside world. How shocking.