Drawing Restraint 9 April 26, 2007

From the Montreal Mirror (by CHRISTINE REDFERN):

"Artist Matthew Barney brings his singular vision to town next week with his latest film, Drawing Restraint 9. The soundtrack is by Icelandic musician Björk, Barney’s real-life partner, who also stars opposite him in the film. The two are Occidental guests on a Japanese whaling ship called the Nisshin Maru.

The film has little narrative—the first words spoken are an hour and a half into the 145-minute epic—but it is filled with sounds and music. The scenes unravel in a succession of impressive shots, something we’ve come to expect from Barney’s big budget productions, but also with a reverence that brings to mind a kind of religious ceremony. Vaseline sculptures, hair and fur vie for our attention amidst thoughts about industry, culture and our animal nature.

All in all, it’s a meditative and pleasingly bizarre film, with a climax that finds the pair enjoying some fresh sashimi. Even if you don’t like the final result, at least the story, characters and costumes are not the usual rehash of the obvious. And it’s free! Presented by DHC/ART Foundation at the Imperial Theatre (1430 Bleury) on Thursday, April 26 at 8 p.m. No advance tickets, info: (514) 866-6767."

Official Website: http://www.montrealmirror.com/2007/041907/artsweek.html