The Alchemy of Sulphur has some of the best representations of West Coast artist culture I have seen. The hourly rhythm of the creative life is faithfully represented. We see artists diligently procrastinating, industriously embellishing how close they are to meeting their deadlines with their editors, all the while running out for more tea. Spot f*****g on. There are even specifics only those in the game know, like people who need to manufacture crises to feel creative.
The performances are capable of expressing all the right emotions at the precise moment. Of special note is Schwell’s turn as Calliope. The ominous shamanic power Schwell wields effortlessly forces the viewer to take what she is showing seriously. Best not to mess with her. Her eyes spit psilocybin. Leads Rasti and Allen do fantastic jobs not only being believable artists but also being believable as non-artists when they are playing the short story characters.
“… a strong work of cinematic art that is engaging…”
The big flourish of the production would have to be the show-stopping score by Sylvi Alli. As in her husband’s other films, like Tracer, Sylvi Alli creates this wonderful music that electrifies the camera imagery. This time around, we have a lot of gorgeous songs of hers, which are reminiscent of Dead Can Dance and other artists from England’s 4AD label.
The Alchemy of Sulphur is a strong work of cinematic art that is engaging and accessible. The fact that challenging work like this is being made available to all is revolutionary. It is like having the famed New York Millennium Film Workshop in your pants pocket. Isn’t the future swell?
For screening information, visit The Alchemy of Sulphur official website.
"…some of the best representations of West Coast artist culture..."
