Planned Obsolessons Poster

Planned Obsolessons 1972

6 min📅 1972-03-12

Step into the avant-garde world of *Planned Obsolessons* (1972), Doug Wendt's cryptic six-minute short film that captures a single, fateful night when art and collapse intertwine.

Director: Doug Wendt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Planned Obsolessons* (1972) about?

This six-minute experimental short film captures the chaotic unveiling of an art fountain that collapses on the night of its debut. The story revolves around an exclusive gathering of champagne-sipping art patrons who witness the dramatic failure of a sculpture they were celebrating. The film blurs the line between documentary and performance, leaving audiences to ponder the fragility of artistic ambition.

Who directed *Planned Obsolessons*?

Director information is not available.

Who stars in *Planned Obsolessons*?

The film features an unnamed cast of champagne-sipping art patrons and the involvement of artist Richard See, though full credits are not documented.

Is *Planned Obsolessons* (1972) worth watching?

With its experimental nature and cryptic premise, *Planned Obsolessons* is a niche pick best suited for fans of avant-garde cinema or art-world curiosities. While it lacks traditional narrative, its haunting atmosphere and historical oddity make it a compelling watch for those intrigued by the unexpected intersections of art and failure.

How long is *Planned Obsolessons*?

The runtime is approximately 6 minutes.

About Planned Obsolessons (1972) — A Six-Minute Short Film Where Art and Collapse Collide

Step into the avant-garde world of *Planned Obsolessons* (1972), Doug Wendt's cryptic six-minute short film that captures a single, fateful night when art and collapse intertwine. The film unfolds at an elite champagne-soaked gathering of art patrons, all gathered to witness the unveiling of a striking fountain sculpture co-created by filmmaker Wendt and artist Richard See. What begins as a celebration of modern creativity takes a dramatic turn when the fountain tragically collapses mere hours after its debut, leaving the stunned audience to grapple with the fragility of artistic ambition. With its minimalist yet haunting atmosphere, *Planned Obsolessons* blends observational cinema with a touch of surreal tension, exploring themes of impermanence, the fleeting nature of art, and the unpredictable consequences of creative endeavors. This obscure gem remains a fascinating footnote in experimental film history, offering more questions than answers amid its stark visuals and eerie quietude.

Directed with a keen eye for atmosphere, *Planned Obsolessons* (1972) is less a narrative and more a meditative snapshot of a moment gone wrong. Wendt's experimental approach transforms a simple event into a quietly unsettling meditation on the ephemeral nature of both art and human endeavors. The film's sparse runtime and cryptic premise invite multiple viewings, each revealing new layers of meaning in its seemingly straightforward documentation of collapse and aftermath. Whether you're drawn to obscure cinema, art-world intrigue, or the raw unpredictability of live events, this six-minute curiosity is a must-see for fans of unconventional filmmaking.