Watch La chambre

La chambre is a 1972 film directed by Chantal Akerman, a Belgian filmmaker known for her experimental approach to filmmaking. The film consists of a 70-minute static shot of a small apartment room in Brussels. The camera is fixed in place, and the shot only changes as the natural light in the room shifts over the course of the day. There is no narrative, no dialogue, and no action to speak of. Instead, the film invites us to simply observe the room and its contents, and to reflect on the human presence that permeates this space.

The room itself is sparsely furnished, with a bed in one corner, a table in another, and a chair and a lamp in a third. There are a few personal effects scattered around, such as a pair of shoes, some clothes hung on a hanger, and a vase of flowers on the table. But for the most part, the space feels empty, and it is easy to imagine that it is a kind of blank slate onto which its occupant, whoever that may be, projects their own thoughts and feelings.

As we watch the film, we become increasingly aware of the passage of time. At first, the light coming in through the window is bright and harsh, and we can see every detail of the room with crystal clarity. But as the day wears on, the light gradually softens and the shadows lengthen, until the room is suffused with a warm, golden glow. Then, slowly, imperceptibly, the light begins to fade again, and the shadows deepen once more.

Throughout the film, there is an underlying sense of tension and unease. We never see the occupant of the room, and we never hear any sounds or voices from outside. But there are hints of life happening beyond the frame. At one point, we hear the distant sound of a siren, and a few minutes later, the sound of a bird singing outside. These sounds serve as a reminder of the world beyond the room, and hint at the larger forces that are shaping the lives of those inside.

La chambre is a powerful and evocative film that uses the medium of cinema to explore the nature of human existence. By stripping away all narrative and dialogue, Akerman creates a space for the viewer to reflect on their own inner lives and emotions. The film is a study in minimalism, both in terms of its visuals and its approach to storytelling. But despite its starkness, it is a deeply affecting work that lingers long after the credits have rolled.

Overall, La chambre is a unique and unforgettable film that rewards patient and attentive viewing. It is a masterful example of experimental cinema, and a testament to the power of filmmaking to reveal the hidden depths of human experience. Whether you are a fan of avant-garde cinema or simply looking for something new and thought-provoking, this film is not to be missed.