Immersive Critique in Lucrecia Martel's Zama

Abstract:Lucrecia Martel's Zama (2017) is the adaptation of the homonymous novel by Antonio di Benedetto, published in 1956. The action takes place in the 18th century, something we know from the novel, and from the representation of the colonial society in the film. The film, however, does not make any clear indication of the date in which the action takes place. Instead, it immerses the spectator in an atmosphere that is both natural and social. This immersion is achieved through sound and its connection with images. This immersion, however, does not entail illusion but is, in fact, intertwined with critical distance. This paper explores the apparent paradox between immersion and critique, paying attention to sound, the creation of a multisensory atmosphere, the composition of the frames, and the geometry of some scenes. This paper ultimately explores the connection between sound, image and power structures.