La Jetee
La Jetee is a French film directed by Chris Marker (with music score by Trevor Duncan) and released in 1962. It's composed entirely of black and white photographs and sound. This constraint provides Marker with ample room to experiment with various visual and aural elements to tell his story.
The premise of La Jetee (The Jetty), is that Paris has been blown up in a nuclear attack and that mind experiments are being conducted on the protagonist who is "...marked by an image from his childhood". The narration and music seems dated, viewing the film in our 21st century mileau, but they enhanced the film.
Throughout the film, Marker uses sounds like the varying rhythym and intensity of a heartbeat, whispering, and flocks of birds to create and release tension. There are several sequences that stand apart. One towards the end in which the the viewer hears the sound of a flock of birds as a quick succesion of images of the protagonist's girlfriend lying in bed is flashed to imply breathing is very effective.
What resonates is Marker's implementation of still imagery and sound to convey the concept of visceral memories in a story about time travel. The images would stand alone without sound but it is the synthesis of elements that proves so succesful. La Jetee warrants multiple viewings to fully appreciate.