It is a documentary film in which von Trier challenges Leth to remake his own 1967 short film, The Perfect Human, five times, each time with a different set of constraints or “obstructions.” The film explores the creative process and the relationship between director and subject, as well as the possibilities and limitations of art.
Lars von Trier challenges Jorgen Leth to remake his 1967 short film “The Perfect Human” five times, with each version subject to a different set of “obstructions.” The precise rules of each obstruction are as follows:
- The first obstruction requires Jorgen Leth to remake “The Perfect Human” in Cuba, with no set, and using only shots that are no longer than 12 frames.
- The second obstruction requires Jorgen Leth to remake “The Perfect Human” in the worst possible location he can find, with the added constraint that each shot must be no longer than 50 frames.
- The third obstruction requires Jorgen Leth to create a film that is a tribute to his own work, but without repeating himself. This obstruction challenges him to invent new ways to tell the story.
- The fourth obstruction requires Jorgen Leth to make a cartoon version of “The Perfect Human” using voice-over narration.
- The fifth obstruction requires Jorgen Leth to remake “The Perfect Human” in the style of von Trier’s own filmmaking.
In terms of Jorgen’s coping with the obstructions, it’s fascinating to see how he navigates each one. At times he seems frustrated and resistant, but he also rises to the challenge and produces some incredibly creative and innovative work. It’s clear that he has a deep respect for von Trier as a filmmaker, and this respect seems to drive him to produce his best work.
In terms of the effect on the movies he produces, each one is vastly different from the others. Some are more experimental, while others are more straightforward. However, all of them are united by the fact that they push the boundaries of what’s expected in terms of filmmaking. They’re also united by the fact that they’re all incredibly compelling and thought-provoking pieces of cinema.
As I was watching the film, I found myself struck by the way that the obstructions were able to unlock a new level of creativity in Jorgen. It was as if the limitations imposed upon him allowed him to think outside the box and produce work that he might not have thought of otherwise. I also found myself thinking about the nature of creativity and how limitations can often be a powerful catalyst for innovation.
Overall, Five Obstructions is a fascinating exploration of the creative process, and the relationship between mentor and mentee. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in filmmaking or the creative arts more broadly.