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Reich: Three Tales
"Three Tales" is a video music work by American composer Steve Reich and video artist Beryl Korot. It is set in three "Acts", each depicting a technological advance of the 20th century and its negative implications on humanity: the dirigible airship Hindenburg and its explosion; the Atom Bomb and its testing on Bikini Atoll; and Dolly the sheep, first successful genetic cloning of a mammal.
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Plot Summary
This documentary delves into the life and influence of Wilhelm Reich, an Austrian psychoanalyst and philosopher known for his controversial theories on sexual repression, orgone energy, and a device called the 'cloudbuster.' The film explores his early work with Freud, his later eccentric theories, and his eventual persecution and death in federal prison. It presents a multifaceted look at a brilliant but ultimately tragic figure in 20th-century thought.
Critical Reception
While specific critical reviews for 'Reich: Three Tales' are scarce due to its documentary nature and limited release, the film generally aims to provide a comprehensive, albeit sometimes dense, overview of Wilhelm Reich's complex and often polarizing life and work. It is seen as an informative piece for those interested in controversial figures of the 20th century.
What Reviewers Say
Explores the controversial theories of Wilhelm Reich.
Provides a biographical look at his life and struggles.
Appeals to those interested in unconventional thinkers.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific documentary is not widely available.
Fun Fact
Wilhelm Reich's theories on 'orgone energy' were so outside the mainstream scientific consensus that he was eventually prosecuted and imprisoned in the United States for mail fraud related to the sale of unproven devices he claimed could harness this energy.
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