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Demi-Demons

Demi-Demons is an essay film about the contradictions of contemporary existence, which separate us from our natural instincts, opening abysses within us. The glorification of the hermaphrodite, the hedonism of virtual realities, the search for new levels of physical attraction and forms of higher consciousness, ambivalence towards sexual reproduction, these abysses embody the existential struggles inherent in navigating the terrain between instinct and enlightenment in a rapidly evolving world.

Demi-Demons is made and animated from vintage photos and collages, creating a surreal and thought-provoking atmosphere.

  • Martin Gerigk
    Director
  • Martin Gerigk
    Writer
  • Martin Gerigk
    Soundtrack
  • Martin Gerigk
    Animations and special effects
  • Martin Gerigk
    Editing
  • Nikola Gocic
    Collage art
  • Su Tuna
    Female voice
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Experimental, Short
  • Genres:
    experimental, animation
  • Runtime:
    17 minutes 12 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 22, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    Germany
  • Country of Filming:
    Germany
  • Language:
    No Dialogue
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Martin Gerigk

Martin Gerigk (*1972) is a composer of contemporary music. His repertoire includes compositions for orchestra and chamber music, as well as several solo concertos. His compositions are performed nationally and internationally including in Korea, Japan, USA, England, Finland, Austria and Switzerland. In this context he works together with renowned international soloists and ensembles
.
In addition to his compositional work he is known for his remarkable audiovisual art and experimental films which focus on inherent synesthetic connections of sound and visual perceptions. Besides creating interwoven aural and visual landscapes of music, nature sounds and video sequences one important aspect of his art is the illustration of the hidden poetry of nature phenomena and sciences.

His experimental films won several international prizes and were screened at noted festivals like the Seattle International Film Festival, Asolo Art Film Festival, International Digital Arts Festival Videoformes, Girona Film Festival, Salento International Film Festival, Columbus International Film & Animation Festival, USA Film Festival, New Jersey Film Festival, Sidney International Film Festival, Fargo Film Festival, Sherman Oaks Film Festival, Canberra Short Film Festival, Film and Video Poetry Symposium Los Angeles or the Syracuse Film Festival.

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Director Statement

Demi-Demons is an experimental film essay which explores the abysses that emerge inside us when we stray from our innate instincts.

One notable consequence of this distancing in contemporary life is the glorification of the hermaphrodite as the ideal link between women and men. In a departure from traditional gender roles and binaries, the hermaphrodite symbolizes a fusion of femininity and masculinity, embodying the pursuit of unity and balance. However, this idealization can also reflect a deep-seated discomfort with one’s own innate gender and sexuality, leading to a sense of disorientation and confusion.

Similarly, as individuals try to redefine and expand their notions of desire, they search for new modes of physical attraction. With the erosion of traditional norms, people explore unconventional avenues of intimacy and connection, challenging societal expectations and boundaries. This exploration can be liberating, yet it also exposes individuals to vulnerability and uncertainty as they navigate uncharted territory.

Alongside these shifts in physical attraction, there is a parallel quest for higher levels of consciousness. In an increasingly fragmented and chaotic world, individuals yearn for transcendence and enlightenment, seeking meaning beyond the confines of the material realm. Yet, this pursuit can lead to a sense of detachment from the realities of everyday life, fostering a disconnect between mind and body.

In the digital age, the search for pleasure takes on new dimensions as people immerse themselves in virtual worlds and online interactions. The allure of instant gratification and endless choices draws individuals away from the tangible pleasures of the natural world, blurring the line between reality and simulation. This digital escapism offers temporary relief from the stress of contemporary life but can ultimately deepen feelings of isolation and alienation.

As a result of these changes, people are increasingly ambivalent about having children, which becomes a source of conflict within relationships. As societal attitudes towards gender and sexuality evolve, traditional notions of family and procreation are called into question. This conflict underscores the profound implications of distancing ourselves from our natural instincts, challenging fundamental aspects of human identity and existence.

Demi-Demons is made and animated from vintage photos and collages, creating a surreal and thought-provoking atmosphere.