The Dance of Reality (2013) Watch Online Free
“Having broken away from my illusory self, I was desperately seeking a path and a meaning to life.” This phrase perfectly sums up Alejandro Jodorowsky’s biographical project: reconstituting the incredible adventure of his life. Alejandro Jodorowsky was born in 1929 in Tocopilla, a coastal town on edge of the Chilean desert, where this film was shot. It was there where he discovered the fundamentals of reality, as he underwent an unhappy and alienated childhood as part of an uprooted family.
The Dance of Reality (La danza de la realidad) is a semi-autobiographical film directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky. It marks his return to filmmaking after a 23-year hiatus. The movie blends fantasy, drama, and surrealism as Jodorowsky explores his childhood in Chile. The film is structured as a series of vivid and dreamlike sequences that reflect the director’s early years, particularly his complex relationship with his authoritarian father, Jaime, and the socio-political landscape of Chile.
The narrative follows Alejandro (played by Jodorowsky’s son, Brontis), who is a young boy in the 1930s, struggling with the oppressive influence of his father. Alejandro’s early experiences are tinged with surreal imagery, such as his attempt to connect with nature and his search for a deeper understanding of life. The film dives into his internal conflict, where surreal elements, like dancing fish and metaphysical encounters, represent his psychological state. As the story progresses, Alejandro’s relationship with his father becomes more intense, leading to an exploration of forgiveness, identity, and the influence of family on one’s destiny.
At its core, The Dance of Reality is a film about personal growth, family dynamics, and the tension between reality and illusion. Jodorowsky uses vivid, surreal imagery to convey complex emotional and psychological struggles, especially those of the son trying to reconcile with his father. The exploration of authority and control is central to the film, as Alejandro’s father represents a harsh, patriarchal figure whose oppression fuels the protagonist’s rebellion and quest for self-understanding.
The movie also delves into themes of spirituality and existential searching. Jodorowsky, known for his spiritual and philosophical musings, infuses the film with his belief in “psychomagic”—a therapeutic practice he created that blends elements of psychoanalysis and shamanism. His creative process emphasizes breaking free from conventional thought patterns to embrace the mysticism and chaos of existence, symbolized through bizarre and fantastical sequences.
The use of childhood memories and fantastical storytelling techniques provides an intimate look into Jodorowsky’s own psyche. His symbolic use of animals, nature, and religious imagery invites viewers to reflect on the deeper meaning of life, pushing the boundaries between the material world and spiritual realms.
The Dance of Reality stands out for its unique narrative structure and visual style. It reconnects Jodorowsky with the rawness of his early works like El Topo (1970) and The Holy Mountain (1973), yet it shows a more introspective and mature approach to personal and familial themes. The film’s surreal visuals and bold symbolic choices provide a striking commentary on the power of memory, trauma, and transformation. It challenges conventional storytelling by refusing to adhere to linear narratives or traditional filmic norms.
Its impact is felt in how it reintroduces Jodorowsky’s distinctive voice to a new generation. The director’s embrace of mysticism and existential themes strikes a chord with audiences who are seeking deeper, more unconventional cinema. It also offers a poignant examination of childhood trauma and the enduring influence of family relationships.
After watching The Dance of Reality, you may feel a mix of awe and contemplation. The film’s striking visuals and surreal imagery can evoke a sense of wonder, but it also delves into heavy emotional and philosophical territory. The emotional weight of the father-son relationship, combined with the surreal nature of the narrative, may leave you reflecting on your own family dynamics and the role of memory in shaping identity. Jodorowsky’s intimate portrayal of his childhood could evoke feelings of both catharsis and discomfort, as the film never shies away from difficult themes. Ultimately, viewers are left with a sense of having experienced something deeply personal, challenging, and transformative
