True Films 3.0 - Kevin Kelly

The Way Things Go
This supremely demented documentary by two German artists presents
a continuous chain reaction than runs for the length of the film. Old
tires, ladders, shoes, flames and explosions trigger the next piece of
precariously balanced junk. This art-piece is greatly appreciated by nerds
for the amazing chemistry and physics required to keep self-generated
chaos on track. Science teachers play the video for lessons in equilibrium
and causation, while artists roll the film at parties for an irresistible and
mesmerizing spectacle. I like it for the illustration of the never-ending
chain reaction that seems to take over the world. A Mr. Wizard science
demonstration that takes on its own life.
A rocket car carries flame along rails to the next station. When a ladder is tipped over
(bottom left) it releases a tire to roll into the next item. A bottle holding a liquid is
tipped (bottom right) pouring its content into a cup, which lifts a candle to light a fuse.
By Peter Fischli and
David Weiss
1987, 30 min.
Available from Amazon
Rent from Netflix
183