In this media-archeological adventure based on one VHS tape, artist Ross Sutherland speaks about dramatic moments from his own life and the forming of memories in the age of new media, while looking back at old TV recordings.
The VHS tape at the center of the film is an object from the artist’s childhood and features films, TV shows, and ads recorded over several years: a quilt of media fragments. Adding a particular rhythm to his narrative by fast-forwarding and rewinding the tape, Ross Sutherland uses it as a time capsule: each random or seemingly insignificant fragment activates a memory from his childhood.
Initially a live stage performance, Sutherland has told this story in clubs, fast-forwarding and rewinding the actual tape in front of the audience. Thus, his narrative transformed into something resembling a melancholic stand-up performance, a confession, and a hip-hop track. Later, together with video essay maker Charlie Shackleton, he edited his recordings into a film, in which one can sense the physical presence of the narrator—a not very reliable narrator, fragile in his doubts, commenting on everything from scenes from popular films, to the properties of memory, family relations, and private fantasies.
The film will be screened in English with Russian subtitles.
Standby For Tape Back-Up
Ross Sutherland
UK, 2015. 63 min.
16+