2551.01 – THE KID

CULTFILM PRESENTS:
2551.01 – The Kid
by Norbert Pfaffenbichler
2021, Australia, Austria, 65 min., no dialogue

In 2551.01, Austrian director Norbert Pfaffenbichler plunges audiences into a dystopian underworld, drawing inspiration from Charlie Chaplin’s 1921 classic, The Kid. This experimental, punk-infused reimagining presents a society where grotesque masked figures navigate a nightmarish labyrinth. The narrative follows a man who rescues a boy, both journeying through subterranean realms teeming with bizarre characters. The film’s visual style is striking, with elaborate costumes and set designs that evoke a grimy, industrial aesthetic. The absence of dialogue emphasizes physical performances, reminiscent of silent cinema traditions.
Pfaffenbichler’s direction showcases a unique blend of horror and slapstick, creating a disorienting yet captivating experience. The film’s score, a fusion of metal, organ, and electronic elements, enhances its unsettling atmosphere. This avant-garde approach challenges conventional storytelling, inviting viewers into a world that is both alien and familiar.

2551.01 stands as a testament to Pfaffenbichler’s innovative vision, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. It serves as a rallying cry for society’s misfits, embracing the beauty found within the grotesque.

Cineville valid at the door and online on the day of the event!