TIFF 2024: exergue – on documenta 14 (With Movie Trailer)
Looking for something totally different at TIFF this year? Let me introduce you to Exergue – On Documenta 14, an epic, must-see documentary series that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most controversial art exhibitions. It’s got drama, creativity, and plenty of behind-the-scenes action—and it’s 14 hours long (yes, you read that right). But don’t let that scare you off, because this marathon viewing is going to be worth every minute.
So, What’s Documenta 14?
First, a quick intro: documenta is a massive art exhibition that happens every five years in Kassel, Germany. Think of it as the Super Bowl for contemporary art. But in 2017, things took a wild turn when Polish curator Adam Szymczyk decided to split the event between two cities—Kassel and Athens, Greece—and take on big issues like colonialism, migration, and politics. Spoiler alert: it was bold, controversial, and super expensive. We’re talking a €5.4 million budget gap that made headlines.
What’s Exergue All About?
Exergue – On Documenta 14 takes you behind the curtain of this jaw-dropping art event. Director Dimitris Athiridis followed Szymczyk and his team for two years, capturing everything from intense meetings and negotiations to artist studio visits and historical digs. You’ll see the push and pull between creative expression and real-world financial challenges. And trust me, things get tense.
But here’s the cool part: despite its 14-hour length (spread over three days), this doc is actually really watchable. Athiridis uses a “fly-on-the-wall” style, which means you feel like you’re right there in the room as the drama unfolds. It’s all about the creative process, the struggles, and the occasional chaos that comes with pulling off an exhibition of this size.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re into art, this documentary is a goldmine. You get to see famous curators and artists working their magic while grappling with big ideas about the future of art in a rapidly changing world. But even if art isn’t usually your thing, Exergue is just fascinating. It’s like watching a high-stakes, real-life drama play out in the most unexpected setting.
There’s also a lot to think about: How do you balance creativity with the pressures of public funding? How far should art go in challenging political norms? These are questions the documentary subtly raises without giving you easy answers, which makes it all the more compelling.
Ready for the Marathon?
So, if you’re ready to dive into something totally unique, here’s when and where you can catch Exergue at TIFF 2024:
- Thursday, September 12 – 4:00 pm at TIFF Lightbox
- Friday, September 13 – 6:00 pm at TIFF Lightbox
- Saturday, September 14 – 5:00 pm at TIFF Lightbox
Remember, tickets are sold as a single package for all three screenings, so make sure to block out your calendar for this cinematic adventure.
Bottom Line
Exergue – On Documenta 14 is the kind of experience you won’t forget anytime soon. It’s not just a movie—it’s a deep dive into the world of contemporary art, full of creativity, tension, and big ideas. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious about how these massive exhibitions come together, this documentary will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Grab your tickets, settle in, and get ready to be inspired!
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