Casting a Glance 2007
Casting a Glance (2007) is a meditative documentary by visionary filmmaker James Benning, paying homage to the legendary American artist Robert Smithson.
Director: James Benning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Casting a Glance (2007) about?
Casting a Glance (2007) explores the enduring legacy of Robert Smithson's Spiral Jetty, a massive earthwork sculpture in Utah's Great Salt Lake. The film documents filmmaker James Benning's repeated visits to the site, capturing its changing appearance and mood over two years. It's a visual meditation on art, nature, and the passage of time.
Who directed Casting a Glance?
Casting a Glance (2007) was directed by James Benning, an acclaimed American filmmaker known for his experimental and contemplative approach to cinema.
Who stars in Casting a Glance?
Director James Benning is the central figure, as the film is a deeply personal and artistic exploration rather than a traditional narrative with actors.
Is Casting a Glance (2007) worth watching?
While Casting a Glance (2007) may not appeal to casual viewers due to its slow pacing, it's a must-see for fans of avant-garde documentary filmmaking. Its meditative quality and stunning visuals offer a unique perspective on art and landscape, making it a rewarding experience for the right audience.
How long is Casting a Glance?
Casting a Glance (2007) has a runtime of 80 minutes.
About Casting a Glance (2007) — A Slow Cinema Portrait of Robert Smithson's Spiral Jetty
Casting a Glance (2007) is a meditative documentary by visionary filmmaker James Benning, paying homage to the legendary American artist Robert Smithson. Over 16 trips between 2005 and 2007, Benning captured the haunting beauty of the Spiral Jetty—a monumental earthwork Smithson created in 1970. Stretching 1,500 feet into Utah's Great Salt Lake, the Jetty is a mesmerizing spiral of rocks, salt crystals, and vibrant red algae. The film transforms this iconic landmark into a cinematic canvas, inviting viewers to reflect on time, nature, and the transient nature of art itself.
Through patient, unhurried visuals and minimalist storytelling, Casting a Glance (2007) becomes more than a documentary—it's an immersive experience that strips away distractions. The documentary's quiet intensity mirrors the solitude of the Jetty, where the landscape's raw beauty and industrial remnants collide. Benning's lens lingers on the interplay of light and water, the stark contrasts of the desert, and the slow, inevitable changes wrought by nature over decades. It's a film that challenges viewers to slow down and truly *look*, making it a standout in the documentary genre.