jthaule

Like much of the Fascist regime's propaganda during the occupation of Norway this film is quite amateurish. The story itself is a bland but representative presentation of Nasjonal Samling's self perception and ideology. However, the acting, the editing, lighting and scenography is stilted, rushed, flat and often involuntaril funny.

The film has many of the party slogans presented as lines from the younger characters, and mythologizes Quisling as a true visionary on so many levels.

The film failed completely at the box office, and was the only nazi propaganda film with wide distribution during the occupation. It was ridiculed by the audience, and withdrawn to only be circulated within the party - like the very few other propaganda films made during the war.

As a film it is also quite boring, with chaotic dramaturgy and a disjointed storyline. It is however an interesting film for historians of the occupation.

I believe this short is an expression of emotionality and curiosity, and as such probably shouldn't be analyzed to heavily. Parts of it being coming to terms with your own mortality, the other bit is attraction to and curiosity about death itself.

It did however make me think about some things. In a postmodern sense we have declared the death of the author. At the moment your work is in the world, it is no longer yours and you have no say over it. Artists deal with this in different ways. George Lucas continues to revise his works, and refuses to die as an author, and relinquish control. Ego grasping, in a way. Whereas Cronenberg makes a little piece about seeing yourself as dead, and exploring that state.

Regardless, it's a very powerful film.