Pendulum is Manuel Mathieu’s first film project to be released. Like his paintings, sculptures and installations, the short film is part of a quest for phenomenological encounters that question the power relations that define us. It is also a film about the fight for equality, freedom and a more harmonious common future.
The FIFA jury justified their choice to award this 11-minute short film by praising “its authentic narrative, its color palette, its sound design and its music”. He adds, “We particularly enjoyed his poetic use of silence and the way he embraces non-linear time. We were touched by the tangibility of the natural elements and felt like we were drawn into the film itself. Pendulum stayed in our memories long after the film ended. »
Pendulum is about finding a balance between the past and an uncertain future for black people. In the film, a woman “knowledge keeper” carries on her shoulders her most precious legacy, the liberation of her soul. “From this heritage is born a spiritual choreography where men tame their own freedom while facing the complexity of their humanity, explains the synopsis. During this perpetual exorcism, they assimilate their liberation under a shower of white comets. What will be left of our essence? A new day dawns. »
Manuel thanked the jury for “this beautiful recognition”. “Cinema is a new adventure for me,” he said in a video sent to FIFA. I am very happy to see how this film is received and touches people. The film was under the cinematography of Jonathan Auger. The five performers are Mireille Métellus, François Guy, Philippe Racine, Maxime Mompérousse and Lyndz Dantiste.
Pendulum will be available online on the FIFA website from Friday.
Returning to Montreal after his residency at the Cité des arts in Paris, Manuel Mathieu is busy finishing his mosaics for the Édouard-Montpetit station of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM). He is also preparing his next exhibition in China, scheduled for July at the K11 Foundation of Dr. Adrian Cheng, collector and renowned cultural promoter from Hong Kong.
Multidisciplinary artist and painter renowned on the international contemporary art scene, Manuel Mathieu explores the themes of historical violence, erasure, nature and spiritual heritage. The vibratory effect of his work offers alternative ways to apprehend the world. Originally from Haiti and a graduate of Goldsmith’s College in London, he has exhibited for several years around the world, being represented by galleries in Montreal, London, Chicago and Hong Kong.
