Tati's Playtime

[Craig Bleakley]

Deftly switching the subject to somewhat less controversial visual images,
Craig asks, "Who has constructive criticism/ veiwing suggestions for Jacques
Tati's very very very peculiar film 'Playtime'?"  I've given this film three
running starts.  The first two times I couldn't get into it, but during that
second effort, it did finally sink into me how to productively read the
film: as a comedy whose theme and subject is bodies moving through
(postmodern, urban) space.  The third time, watching through this
interpretive lens, I was mesmerized, but I felt like I needed a Dramamine,
and still haven't gotten all the way through.  The only film of which I know
that can induce motion sickness in couch potatos.  I'll bet cats love
watching it.  Unfortunately, I'm not a cat.  yet.  this life.  If you or
your cat have suggestions to help me all the way through what is doubtless a
masterpiece, but apparently not my cup of tea, please remit.  In the
meantime, I'm installing seat belts on the sofa before my next attempt.

M. Hulot, c'est moi?

Craig B.