MY KINGDOM FOR A LULLABY #2

by Michaela GRILL & Billy ROISZ
2004 / Betacam SP / color / sound / 1S / 10' 00




« Sound/intoxication (Rauschen) is what the music video is about, say the artists, and the ecstatic (Rauschhaft). The German play on words actually makes sense in MY KINGDOM FOR A LULLABY #2; it suits a piece, in which electronically generated sounds and images are modulated and combined in a thoroughly sensorial or even ecstatic manner. The term «white noise» refers to both visual and acoustic elements. It is a prevailing theme in this video, an abstract piece, which requires that the viewer look and listen with utmost attention. On a white screen appear horizontal and vertical lines in delicate gray. First they alternate, then overlap, fade, then become more intense. The soundtrack plays a primary role, is equally as powerful (and elusive) as the images: a composition of crackling, noises (Rauschen), and whirring begins to emerge; music comprised of subtle electronic tones and high frequency «distortion.» The borders separating sound, tone, and rhythm are fluid. (A lullaby of sorts, as the title vaguely attempts to indicate, is nevertheless not discernable with the ear alone).

Darkening and brightening, emphasis and moderation, elevating and lowering: testing picture and sound, shifted parallel and against each other, possible variations and slants. Towards the end, the lines that have emerged in the picture vibrate like the struck strings of an instrument: a final ironic reference to the objective image, offering one last contribution from the kingdom of digital abstra

1 PRINT IN DISTRIBUTION


distribution format Digital file on server (PAL)
screen 4/3 (single screen)
speed 25 fps
sound sound
rental fee 33,00 €