Soaked in symbolism and free of dialogue, this film immediately throws us into the pits of creation, where we are forced to face ourselves and recognize our place in the universe. We are forced to ponder upon religion and the concept of creation (the term Begotten, itself, is a past participle of beget, which means to procreate or generate offspring).
What makes this film so intriguing is it’s approach to creation: the dichotomy of life and death and that of creation from destruction. If the Ouroboros were to take another form, I believe this film would be it. However, there are many more archetypes to be unveiled during the film.
Begotten is by far Merhige’s most influential and inspirational work for disturbia-influenced minds. Clips from the film have been used by Silencer in their video for Sterile Nails and Thunderbowels, as well as many fan-made flicks for bands such as Urfaust, I Shalt Become and Diagnose: Lebensgefahr. Some might even argue that Marduk’s “Throne of Rats” video maintains a similar theme.
I highly recommend this prolific piece of art, as it is a personal favorite of mine that I can’t help but return to time and again. The more it is viewed, the more there is to be unveiled and understood.
Laudanum Maryluxe
September 25, 2011 at 7:02 pm
Brilliant review! This film is the heart-provoking and intense piece of moving image I have ever seen, it is at once beautiful and grotesque – infinitely moving, inspiration that casts an awful, erotic haze over the viewer. Hail darkness!
Denman
July 28, 2011 at 3:32 am
I was totally mesmerized the first time I saw this film. Good call on the post.