In an innovative twist on traditional film screenings, director Harmony Korine is set to unveil a unique cinematic experience. The event will take place at the Knockdown Center in New York, where Korine will present a reimagined version of his latest work, Baby Invasion. This experimental film combines elements of gaming and live performance, offering audiences an immersive journey that challenges conventional storytelling methods. Following the screening, Korine and other artists will perform live DJ sets, creating a multi-sensory event that blurs the lines between film, music, and digital art.
An Unconventional Screening Experience
On Friday, March 21, the Knockdown Center in New York will host a one-of-a-kind film premiere. Director Harmony Korine, known for his avant-garde approach to filmmaking, will present a reimagined version of Baby Invasion, an experimental film that pushes the boundaries of narrative structure. During the screening, Korine will deconstruct and remix the film in real-time, applying techniques typically associated with DJ performances. The visuals will be accompanied by an original score from the enigmatic artist Burial, adding another layer of depth to the experience.
The film itself is presented as a hyper-realistic, multiplayer first-person shooter game, where players assume the identities of mercenaries wearing baby face avatars. Their mission involves exploring and looting mansions belonging to the wealthy and powerful, all within a time limit. This unconventional format invites viewers to question the nature of identity, power, and control in both virtual and real-world contexts. The film initially premiered at the Venice Film Festival last year, but this New York event promises an entirely new experience through its interactive and live-mixed presentation.
Following the screening, the evening will continue with live DJ sets from Korine, Eyedress, and Yves Tumor, transforming the venue into a dynamic space where cinema and music converge.
From a journalistic perspective, this event represents a significant shift in how films are experienced and consumed. By integrating live performance and audience participation, Korine challenges the passive role of the viewer, encouraging active engagement with the material. This fusion of different art forms not only showcases the evolving nature of cinema but also highlights the increasing importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in contemporary media. It prompts us to rethink the possibilities of storytelling in a digital age, where boundaries between mediums are becoming increasingly fluid.