The Projection Booth Podcast Episode 395: The Saragossa Manuscript (1965)
Dec 18, 2018
Samm Deighan, a film expert with a focus on Polish cinema, and Rob St. Mary, a seasoned film critic, join the discussion on The Saragossa Manuscript. They unravel its intricate narrative and symbols, likening it to classics like The Canterbury Tales. The conversation also touches on humor in dark storytelling, exploring absurdity against serious themes. Additionally, they critically examine Orientalism in the film's portrayal of culture, revealing deeper insights into character dynamics and the historical context behind the surreal adventure.
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Episode notes
Initial Avoidance
- Rob St. Mary avoided the film initially due to Jerry Garcia's involvement and a poster that put him off.
- He later revisited the film and found its convoluted structure less complex than its reputation.
Film Complexity
- Reviewers who find the film's narrative too complex might not have watched it closely.
- It has a conventional structure, similar to a Shakespearean comedy with added layers.
Reviewer Bias
- Reviewers may consider their target audience (mainstream movie fans) when labeling the film "weird".
- This assessment might stem from comparing it to mainstream cinema.
