Collin Aull’s ‘Lohengrin’ is a visually rich short film, shot on Super 8mm film, that draws heavily from Richard Wagner’s ‘Lohengrin’. With no dialogue to guide the viewer, Aull’s film relies entirely on its striking imagery and poetic narrative to explore themes of love, identity, and fate. Virginia Monasterio stars as the sole protagonist, embodying a woman dressed in white – a possible nod to Elsa from ‘Lohengrin’ who gazes at her reflection in a lake, setting the tone for a contemplative journey.
Sunlight is used throughout the film, creating a mystical ambiance that aligns with the opera’s themes of revelation and divine presence. This light, paired with the use of reflections, seems to symbolize the search for identity and truth. When Monasterio’s character plucks an apple from the lake and takes a bite, her fate takes a dark and unexpected turn, echoing the tragic consequences of seeking forbidden knowledge, much like Elsa’s fate in Wagner’s opera.
While the film’s abstract nature and lack of dialogue may leave some viewers puzzled, especially those unfamiliar with Wagner’s work, Aull’s effort is a commendable artistic experiment. He weaves a visually compelling story that is as much about mood and symbolism as it is about narrative. ‘Lohengrin’ may not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate avant-garde cinema, it’s a thoughtful exploration of light, identity, and the haunting consequences of curiosity.
