A look back at the works of a German innovator

Korean fans will soon be able to experience the work of Harun Farocki, often referred to as “Germany’s best-known unknown filmmaker.” The Korean Association of Cinematheque, together with the Goethe Institut, has put together a “Harun Farocki Special” retrospective.
“Who is Farocki?” was the title of the essay that brought Farocki international recognition. Farocki started his career in 1960 and went unrecognized until the aforementioned essay was featured in “Cahiers du Cinema” in 1975. Since then he has been considered one of Germany’s most influential filmmakers.
Over the years, he has made over 90 films, collaborating with big-name directors such as Jean-Marie Straub, Daniele Huillet, and Christian Petzold. He is best known for his essay-style films and documentaries that touch on a wide range of themes.
“The Interview” (1997) will be the first of the eight films screened in the six-day exhibition. In the one-hour film, Farocki explores how people think and feel. The film will be followed by a short documentary, “Workers Leaving the Factory” (1995). The film consists of shots of about 100 workers leaving through two seperate factory gates. After the screenings on the first and second day, Farockie himself will make an appearance and will discuss his films with the audience.
Screenings also include “The Inextinguishable Fire” (1969), and “Between Two Wars” (1978). In “The Inextinguishable Fire,” Farockie criticizes corporate greed, and delves into the depressing social atmosphere and horrifying scenes behind the industrialization of Germany in “Between Two Wars.”
The Harun Farocki Special will run from May 1 to May 6 at the Seoul Art Cinema. For more information, contact (02) 741-9782.

By Choi Hae-won Contributing Writer [estyle@joongang.co.kr]