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The Girl Chewing Gum

The Girl Chewing Gum

1976
Short Film
12m
On a busy London Street, video installation artist John Smith directs a scene the exact way that he wants it. As his 'cast' come and go in front of his camera he directs them in a constant narration, telling them exactly what he wants them to do. As he moves his camera around he demands increasing control over his environment and obedience from his subjects - be they people, cars, trucks, birds, clocks or buildings! (imdb User Comments)
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The Girl Chewing Gum

1976
Short Film
12m
Your probable score
Avg Percentile 54.81% from 57 total ratings

Ratings & Reviews

(57)
Compact view
Compact view
Rated 18 Aug 2011
75
53rd
I like it, I think it's interesting and original. There is actually a laugh or two, but it's mostly due to the fact that the director is trying to get birds to do what he wants, or clocks, etc. I saw people saying it's about if life imitates art or the other way around... also about the frustration of artists when things don't go exactly as they wish (uncontrollable happenings). So in this way, the short works, but be warned... it's 12 minutes of a guy telling people what to do.
Rated 10 Apr 2017
70
64th
On the surface, The Girl Chewing Gum is a short one-note gag, but it works on more than just that level, perhaps directing a satirical eye on the filmmaking process and those driven to bending it to their will.
Rated 06 Jun 2017
70
88th
God! I wonder if this is unprecedented. Anyone had not thought about like this until 1976?
Rated 15 Sep 2022
60
54th
The precursor to 'The Truman Show'? It also reminds me of my favourite YouTube show 'Theatre of Life', so that's nice. The illusion of determinism is surprisingly satisfying to watch and listen to (it seems we desire clear chains of cause and effect) although the constant wailing of the alarm is somewhat annoying. I wonder what the people are queuing to see at the Odeon Cinema in Dalston?

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