Suzie Hanna
Suzie Hanna
Letter to the World
Dir. Suzie Hanna
& Tom Simmons
Copyright 2010
9m40s
Letter to the World was
created for the Emily Dickinson International Symposium in partnerhip
with Tom Simmons, Norwich University College of the Arts and Dr Sally
Bayley, University of Oxford.
The film is inspired by Dickinson's experiments with hybridity
and dual identities, by which the poet creates a vast imaginary landscape
with an extraordinary microscopic perception of nature.
The film was produced from animated silhouettes of the American actress Elisabeth Gray integrated with stop-motion object and shadow theatre. It includes a rich supply of contemporary artistic and cultural influences referenced in Dickinson's poetry and letters.
The film alludes to Daguerreotypes, magic lanterns and other 19th century
lens technology designed to enhance the sense of scale and location.
The reduction and enlargement of territories and spheres of influence
lie at the heart of Dickinson's imagination, a kind of poetic
egotism that permits her to shrink her enemies, including God.
Screenings and presentations include:
Emily Dickinson International Symposia, Oxford University (2010)
6th ZEBRA Poetry Film Festival, Berlin (2012)
Sylvia Plath Symposium Indiana University, Bloomington, USA (2012)
More information:
Link to Emily Dickinson International Symposia website >>
Link to film on vimeo >>