Watch H is for House

H is for House is a 1973 experimental film directed by Peter Greenaway. The movie explores the relationship between humans and their houses by showcasing several houses and the people living in them. The film is not a conventional narrative, but a collection of images and sounds that depict the various functions and meanings of houses. The opening shot follows a group of people as they enter a large building that represents a house, and then the camera moves throughout different rooms, which sets the tone for the rest of the movie.

The film is divided into several sections, each of which explores a different aspect of houses. For instance, the first section is titled "Occupation," which shows different people occupying various rooms in their houses. The second section is "Possessions," which shows people's attachment to their belongings and how they express themselves through them. The third section is "Habitation," which explores the concept of memory and how it's embedded in domestic spaces.

One of the most intriguing aspects of H is for House is Greenaway's use of visual symbolism. For instance, the scene in which a woman washes dishes is followed by an image of a waterfall, suggesting a connection between domestic labor and natural forces. Similarly, the image of a door opening and closing is juxtaposed with the sound of a train passing by, suggesting the intersection of private and public spaces.

The film also incorporates elements of surrealism, with images that are dreamlike and fantastical. For instance, in one sequence, a man wearing a boater hat puts on and takes off different coats, all of which are connected to various elements of his identity. In another scene, a woman is shown ironing a piece of fabric that grows larger and larger until it fills the entire room.

Despite its experimental nature, the film is not entirely divorced from narrative structure. Greenaway uses a voiceover to provide a framework for the images, which helps to ground the film and give it a sense of coherence. The narration is accompanied by a score that incorporates elements of classical music, jazz, and experimental soundscapes.

While the film is not entirely successful in its attempt to convey a coherent message, it does offer a fascinating exploration of the relationship between humans and houses. Greenaway's use of visual symbolism and surrealism creates a hypnotic and dreamlike atmosphere that draws the viewer in, and the performances by the actors, who include Greenaway's own parents, are understated and effective.

Overall, H is for House is a must-see for fans of experimental cinema and those interested in exploring the meanings and functions of domestic spaces.