HOTEL MONTEREY (director/writer: Chantal Akerman; cinematographer: Babette Mangolte; editor: Geneviève Luciani; Runtime: 62; MPAA Rating: NR; producer: Chantal Akerman; Criterion Collection; 1972-France-silent)
“Simulates the experience one gets in an art gallery.“

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz

Belgian filmmaker Chantal Akermanwrites and directs this early experimental film (she was only 22), that’s shot as a silent in an inexpensive Upper West SideNYC hotel. It’s framed like an Edward Hopper tableaux, as its snooping camera brings out a surprising beauty in the dark corridors, elevators, rooms and to the mostly elderly occupants who try avoiding the camera. It also captures a strange sense of isolation and a deathly quiet, that sort of creeps you out. Touring Hotel Monterey simulates the experience one gets in an art gallery, when viewing one’s favorite artist.There’s no intention of Akerman’s personal film having any commercial value, as this one is strictly for cinephiles.

REVIEWED ON 6/24/2010 GRADE: B

Dennis Schwartz: “Ozus’ World Movie Reviews”

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED DENNIS SCHWARTZ