Profit motive and the whispering wind is a unique film that uses a combination of documentary-style filmmaking and experimental storytelling techniques to explore the complex historical and political landscape of the United States. The film is directed by John Gianvito and was released in 2007. It is just over two hours long and has no actors or dialogue. Instead, the film is told through a series of vignettes, images, and text that reveal historical markers and the environment around them.
The film is structured as a journey through American history, with each scene centered around a historical marker that commemorates a particular event, person or place. Through these markers, we are given glimpses into the struggles and triumphs of the American people, as well as a deeper understanding of the social, political and economic systems that have shaped the country.
Despite the political overtones, Profit motive and the whispering wind is not a dry or academic film. Gianvito's direction is immersive and cinematic, giving each marker a distinct mood and sense of place. Some of the markers are solemn and contemplative, while others are playful and celebratory. Together, they create a mosaic of American life that is both informative and engaging.
One of the most striking elements of the film is the way it blends documentary footage with staged scenes. Gianvito and his crew traveled across the country to shoot the markers in situ, capturing the raw beauty of the American landscape and the sometimes haunting stillness of the markers themselves. This footage is then combined with images shot on a soundstage, featuring props and actors meant to evoke specific historical periods. The effect is innovative and at times surreal, blurring the lines between reality and representation.
Another standout element of Profit motive and the whispering wind is the use of text. The film is peppered with quotes from famous Americans, ranging from Martin Luther King Jr. to Walt Whitman to Noam Chomsky. These quotes speak to the themes of the film - justice, freedom, and resistance - and add a layer of intellectualism to the film's aesthetic.
Ultimately, Profit motive and the whispering wind is a powerful and thought-provoking film that challenges us to think critically about American history and our place within it. It is a film that rewards careful attention and invites multiple viewings, as there is always more to uncover beneath the surface. If you are interested in documentary and experimental film, or simply want to deepen your understanding of American history, this is a film not to be missed.
Profit motive and the whispering wind is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 57 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.
