Transformation Scenario

Forum Expanded Exhibition 2019

In the background of blockbuster films, algorithms have replaced human extras in postproduction. By now we are used to automated masses filling the screen, animated by algorithms that let them interact, similar to computer games and agents in computational sociology. Such artificial masses are stepping in the foreground. Simulating life began in the movies and computer games, but influences many fields today. In architecture, city planning, and traffic navigation as well as in predictions of markets and trade, virtual scenarios influence society and change the way we live.
Transformation Scenario’s speculative narration on the impact of emulated group behavior in society might well be inspired by Jean-Luc Godard’s Le Gai Savoir (1969): “To find the solution to a problem, be it a chemical or political problem, one has to dissolve it: dissolve hydrogen, dissolve the parliament. Therefore we will now dissolve images and sounds.” The film is part of a long-term project referencing Elias Canetti’s “Crowds and Power” (1960), shifting the view to imagery of society, crowd control, and the potential of masses today.

by Clemens von Wedemeyer Latvia / Germany / Switzerland 2016 English 20’ Colour

Crew

Written and Directed by	Clemens von Wedemeyer
Editing	Janina Herhoffer, Clemens von Wedemeyer
Sound Design	Jochen Jezussek
Sound	Studio Funk Berlin
Voice-Over	Megan Gay, Ian Dickinson
Producer	Clemens von Wedemeyer

Produced by

Clemens von Wedemeyer

Clemens von Wedemeyer

Clemens von Wedemeyer, born in 1974 in Göttingen, West Germany, is based in Berlin. He studied photography and media at the Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (1996–1998), followed by studies at the Academy of Fine Arts Leipzig (MFA 2005), where he presently holds a professorship in the expanded cinema class. His work has been presented extensively in group and solo exhibitions and film festivals worldwide.

Filmography (selection)

2003 Silberhöhe; 10 min. 2004 Die Siedlung; 20 min. 2005 Otjesd (Leaving) & The Making od Otjesd; 15 min. 2006 Metropolis, Report from China; with Maya Schweizer, 42 min. 2007 Von Gegenüber (From the Opposite Side); 38 min. 2008 Die Probe (The Test); 12 min. 2009 Against Death; 9 min. 2012 Muster (Rushes); 79 min. 2013 Afterimage; 6 min., Forum Expanded 2014 2016 ESIOD 2015; 39 min., Forum Expanded 2016 2018 Transformation Scenario

Bio- & filmography as of Berlinale 2019