Chris Marker – La Jetée (1962)

La Jetée (1963) by Chris Marker is a fascinating example of how still images can be used to tell a powerful story. The film uses mostly black and white photographs to create a unique narrative experience. Each photograph is carefully composed, with attention to light and framing. Even though the images are still, they create a sense of movement and emotion. This shows how photographers can use composition to evoke feelings and tell a story with just one image. The sequence of the images is also important because they flow together to build the protagonist’s journey through time and memory. 

The film explores themes of time and memory which are key to photography. Even though the story is told through still images, they are still able to reflect the character’s fragmented experiences. Highlighting how photography can serve as a way to freeze down moments in time. The film effectively uses facial expressions and gestures to convey feelings, showing that even a single photograph can express deep emotions. The repetition of certain images, like the protagonist’s memory at the airport, emphasizes how visual motifs can enhance storytelling.