Ariel’s Song / Full Fathom Five 1953
Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five (1953) is a groundbreaking two-minute experimental short film by visionary animator Len Lye, blending poetic recitation with avant-garde visuals.
Director: Len Lye
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five (1953) about?
This experimental short film pairs Sir John Gielgud's recitation of a passage from *The Tempest* with Len Lye's abstract, flowing animation. The result is a dreamlike visual poem that explores themes of magic, the sea, and the ethereal power of Shakespeare's words.
Who directed Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five?
Len Lye, a pioneering New Zealand-born animator and filmmaker, directed Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five. Known for his experimental techniques, Lye pushed the boundaries of animation with this visually striking short.
Who stars in Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five?
The film features the voice of Sir John Gielgud, one of the 20th century's most celebrated actors, reciting Shakespeare's text with his iconic gravitas.
Is Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five (1953) worth watching?
While brief at just two minutes, this experimental gem offers a unique and hypnotic experience for fans of avant-garde cinema and poetic animation. Its artistic ambition and collaboration with Sir John Gielgud make it a fascinating cultural artifact worth exploring.
How long is Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five?
The runtime is approximately 2 minutes.
About Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five (1953) — Len Lye's Poetic Animation Masterpiece
Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five (1953) is a groundbreaking two-minute experimental short film by visionary animator Len Lye, blending poetic recitation with avant-garde visuals. The film features a mesmerizing performance by legendary actor Sir John Gielgud as he delivers a haunting passage from Shakespeare's *The Tempest*, creating a hypnotic fusion of voice and motion. Lye's pioneering technique transforms Gielgud's words into a surreal dreamscape, where abstract imagery dances in rhythm with the cadence of Shakespeare's verse, evoking themes of mystery, enchantment, and the boundless power of the sea.
This ultra-short masterpiece is a testament to Lye's innovative spirit, pushing the boundaries of animation in the early 1950s. Shot in black and white, the film's stark yet fluid visuals amplify its eerie, almost otherworldly atmosphere, making it a standout entry in the experimental animation genre. For fans of poetic cinema or groundbreaking artistic expression, Ariel's Song / Full Fathom Five offers a fleeting but unforgettable experience.