(1977)
4
Tom Vick
An expanded version of his 8 1/2 x 11, 11 x 14 utilizes some of the same narrative elements -- and even some of the same shots -- as director James Benning's earlier film, but integrates them into a more complex structure. Added to the two original story lines involving a pair of traveling women and a wandering farm worker is a plot line about a middle-aged man who appears to be involved in some kind of affair. Whereas traditional narrative films use their formal elements to support the plot, the three plot lines in 11 x 14 exist mainly to draw our attention to the film's beautifully realized explorations into composition, perspective, and sound-image relationships. This is where the film's importance lies, and though it can make for demanding viewing -- many of the shots are well over five minutes in duration -- it has proven to be one of Benning's most influential works.
11 x 14 on AllMovie
11 x 14 (1977)
