The short films of Kenneth Anger are certainly NOT for the casual film goer! The best way to describe them is avant-garde--and often make little sense, as they are not meant to be shown to the masses. Some are incredibly artistic--like filmed work of art. Some are really cheaply made and definitely look it. Regardless, they are a challenge to watch and I very strongly recommend you see them with his commentary activated. So why would I see these shorts? Well, in a recent interview I noticed that John Waters credits Anger for much of his inspiration. And, since I have seen all the films of Waters that are available (a couple very early ones aren't), it seems natural I'd give Anger's films a try. This and four other reviews are best on the DVD "Films of Kenneth Anger: Volume 1".
While I could say a lot about INAUGURATION OF THE PLEASURE DOME, I think Norwegianheritic's review was spot-on and there isn't a lot to add. I, too, could see the strong influence from Jean Cocteau and Luis Buñuel. As for the film, it was like a bunch of straight, gay and bisexual artistes who love Alistair Crowley, Satanism and Cabala having a dress-up party and playing out various skits that they thought were clever and great fun. As for normal everyday folks, this is just plain weird, convoluted and, after a slight shock, actually rather boring.
While I could say a lot about INAUGURATION OF THE PLEASURE DOME, I think Norwegianheritic's review was spot-on and there isn't a lot to add. I, too, could see the strong influence from Jean Cocteau and Luis Buñuel. As for the film, it was like a bunch of straight, gay and bisexual artistes who love Alistair Crowley, Satanism and Cabala having a dress-up party and playing out various skits that they thought were clever and great fun. As for normal everyday folks, this is just plain weird, convoluted and, after a slight shock, actually rather boring.