Pierre Hébert

Flashes of shapes and patterns in black and white.

A film in cut-out animation depicting the demographic problems of the world. It shows that in many countries freedom from the old scourges of famine and disease has in turn created the new problem of more mouths to feed. The film suggests that wealthier nations might increase all forms of aid to struggling nations to create a better world. (ubu.com)

This haunting animation film, rich with symbolism, is the filmmaker's plea for a peaceful world in which to raise his newborn son. Using the menacing imagery of the howling wind, the artist provokes viewers to reflect on the insanity of war. While the film is symbolic, its message is unmistakably clear: unless there is an end to conflict, we will continue to see our children swept away like leaves in the wind. (nfb.ca)

Around Perception is a groundbreaking experiment on computer-based animation, consisting of 11 audiovisual events designed to baffle cognition and unrest comfortable notions of reality. Unlike most of his later films, Hébert chose not to collaborate with top-notch experimental musicians and created the soundtrack himself. In this, he followed a method also used by Norman McLaren: to scratch sound directly onto the film itself. (thesoundofeye.blogspot.com)

Short animation evoking a slightly satirical morality. The filmmakers are given to their heart by putting this fable of Jean de La Fontaine to date. (nfb.ca)

In this animated film without words, filmmaker Pierre Hébert and musicians Robert Lepage and René Lussier worked together, and separately, in their respective media. This cinema/music performance recreates, impressionistically, the dehumanizing environment of the urban subway. Drawings etch the outlines of people hurtling through space in underground tunnels. (nfb.ca)

This first feature film by experimental filmmaker Pierre Hébert offers a reflection on the cult of images through the adventures of Mr. Michel. Widowed and recently retired, he leads a peaceful existence in the company of his dog, his books and his television set. But this quiet routine soon turns into a nightmare, with the onslaught of images from the television, showing the turbulence that shakes the world. (imdb)

Gregor Mendel laid the foundations of modern genetics through plant experiments in his monastery's garden. The abstract forms of this film evolve according to his laws of inheritance.

Hébert's jittery animation is superimposed over footage of young drug-addled concertgoers outside of a show by Canadian rock band Offenbach.