For me, The Undertaker (Bartana, 2018) is the most surprising film of Sheff Doc/Fest (so far!). Stepping into this film, it felt as though I would not enjoy it as much as previous documentaries due to its obscurity and lack of dialogue, yet, it has become one of my favourites. In fact, I can not stop thinking about it. 

Watching a non-dialogue film can sometimes be tricky, especially from home where you have several distractions. However, straight away The Undertaker forces you to engage with the film. The suspenseful music and unclear direction of the narrative leaves you unable to look away in an anxious state of: “what is happening?”. It also, at times, feels a bit like a horror film, as the obscure figure stands over a grave whilst the music continues to pick up speed – you are aware something is going to happen but you are not sure what. 

Specifically, I really enjoyed about this film is the dancing. The synchronised dancing adds an aspect of unity, representing that although destructive weapons can tear people apart, the removal of these weapons can bring people together. Moreover, I also really liked the inclusion of the real throughout the film. As they are marching through the streets to the grave, in the background you can see crowds of people taking photographs and watching the event. I believe this inclusion makes the film even more haunting as real life has not been paused, instead they are just as engrossed as the film’s audience, creating a mirror-like aspect. 

Overall, I would describe this short film as haunting but beautiful. It captures you straight away and leaves you thinking about the film hours after watching. I want to see more! 

Written by Gabriella Ingamells