The more a picture embraces experimental art film sensibilities, the more limited its appreciative audience is going to be. Of all the pictures that have ever deservedly been called art films, I don't believe I personally have seen one more experimental and abstruse than this. I admire the audacity to create something so completely, wildly unorthodox, something which not only may not appeal to many viewers but which, for its inscrutability, may also actively repel viewers. I admire the gusto of the cast, collaborators of filmmaker Jane Arden, who clearly share her enigmatic vision and go all-in in their own ways to bring it to life. I also think, however, that for my part, such nonspecific praise is not enough to manifest such value as to solidify a recommendation. I'm glad for those folks for whom 'The other side of the underneath' is an enjoyable or possibly even revelatory experience. I'm not one of them.
The one requirement I have of the movies that I watch, more than anything else, is concrete narrative in at least some small sense. No matter how minimal or extraordinary, if a movie has a story to tell, then I can abide just about anything, and surely find worth in even the slightest measure. Indeed, I'll watch just about anything. Whatever else is true of this feature, however, it has no discernible narrative. What we're greeted with in this instance is a collection of scenes tied around a loose concept, yet at no point am I able to ascertain a through-line, a consistent thread, that imparts a progression from A to B; that brings order to the dialogue, to the characters, or to the vague assemblage; or that ties everything together with meaningful connectivity. Scenes are executed with intensity, passion, and care - is this enough in and of itself, when there is no detectable substance to the tableau? This is the sort of project that invites spectators to glean what they will, to See and Think and Interpret freely. I deeply regret to say that I see nothing. I deeply regret to say that I need more than what 'The other side of the underneath' is - and by "more" I really mean anything, anything at all.
I love the music in the film, especially the exceptionally unconventional offerings of cellist Sally Minford. Beyond this, and my appreciation for the overall daring and commitment of those involved, I struggle to form words that might project positive airs over the proceedings. I can't think of any comparison for how incredibly esoteric or even mystifying this is, and anyway, I don't known if comparisons would be worthy anything. There are people who will come upon 'The other side of the underneath' and absolutely Get It, without hesitation or question, and who will find this an enthralling, exemplary viewing experience. If you're not someone already open to the most profoundly strange and eccentric spheres of cinema, however, then I can only recommend against this. Watch it if you want, but be very, very well aware of what you're getting into.
