Synopsis
The “we” that serves as the title of the film refers to the Armenian people and the genocide they suffered. Pelechian uses images that he shot himself, edited with archival footage. A film that underlines a fierce will to share, to recognize, and to achieve universal peace.
A word from Tënk
Artavazd Pelechian directed this impressive allegorical poem when he returned to Armenia in 1969. His entire conception of cinema is revealed in this film: a refusal of linear narration, of dialogues and chronological markers in favour of a formal research in which the rhythmic editing is the arythmic and symphonic beating heart. The repetition of shots reinforces the emotional power of images, sounds and music, in accordance with Pelechian's theory of "distance editing." Rather than joining two scenes or two shots that would naturally make sense, he separates them and inserts other elements adding to their signifying power. A truly striking "We" takes shape.
Pascale Paulat et Christophe Postic
Artistic Co-Directors
États généraux du film documentaire
