State of Faith
by Jeff Carter
20 min., 16mm, 2003
State of Faith was filmed and recorded by Milton Altwasser during a solo world-wide trek in the early 1990's, and later assembled after the filmmaker's untimely death. Filmed using a primitive Eastman 16mm spring-wound camera and a portable DAT recorder, this film embodies the DIY aesthetic which informs much independent practice. The soundtrack also highlights the filmmakers'considerable composing skills. Director Milton Altwasser was born and raised in Saskatchewan, studied film at Concordia, and, based in Vancouver, engaged in artistic collaborations at home and internationally. Ironically, State of Faith, which was to be a culmination of his collaboratory efforts – became, following his death soon after filming, principally the work of its author.
This is a film that attempts to understand the symbols of 'faith'...the viewer is given an opportunity to experience and possibly demystify the icons that have become more powerful than the actual beliefs and faiths they represent...It is the way in which the film is assembled that will stimulate the viewer to consider its subject."
"State Of Faith includes footage from various locations and sources throughout the world...I wanted to include perspectives from individuals other than like myself. It is a privilege to have a woman from Thailand relate her faith system to me in an interview,or to listen quietly to a Persian man sing a spiritual song into my tape recorder.When the Cameroonian student talked to me about the American Dream in front of an L.A. freeway I respected his insight,and when seven people debated fascism in Western Europe I acknowledged the severity of the issue.One does not have to travel to Japan to have someone speak to them about technology stifling the soul,however a perspective of the global implications of those issues make the journey seem imperative.My goal was to have contact with the people in the film,to be granted permission to film or record them...I am responsible for the images and sounds I have assembled."
-Milton Altwasser
20 min., 16mm, 2003
Principal Crew
A film by Milton Altwasser
Conceptual editor - Dena Galay
Picture editor - Jeff Carter
Music supervisor - Richard Eyre
Sound designer - Velcrow Ripper
Music composed and performed by Milton Altwasser
Additional music
Richard Eyre, The Psychick Warriors, rooftop musicians, Benares tabla master, Benares drum circle, Hawaii
Sound mix - Dieter Piltz
Title graphic - Sandi Kilby
PRODUCED WITH THE KIND ASSISTANCE OF
CINEWORKS INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS SOCIETY
CANADA COUNCIL EXPLORATIONS
NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA Prairie Region