Our Strange New Land: Photographs from Narrative Movie Sets Across the South

Alex Harris photographed the making of over 40 independent fiction films in the American South to explore cinematic representations of the region. His images tell the story of a new South and hint at universal aspects of life, exploring the rapidly evolving world of independent filmmaking.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Yoffy Press

The American South has emerged as a significant hub for film production in the United States. By 2016, Georgia had surpassed California in the number of major feature films shot, marking a significant shift in the cinematic landscape. This transformation was explored in depth by Alex Harris, commissioned by the High Museum in Atlanta for their Picturing the South series. Harris embarked on a journey to visit and document the making of over 40 independent fiction films across the region, employing a documentary approach to capture the scenes that unfolded on or around the set. Through his images, Harris weaves a narrative that portrays the evolving essence of the South while also hinting at universal themes of human existence. These photographs serve as a testament to our role as actors in our own lives, shaping our environments, honing our skills, and portraying ourselves to the world. Moreover, they shed light on the rapidly evolving world of independent filmmaking, a realm largely unknown to audiences outside the film festival circuit. By capturing the behind-the-scenes moments and the creative processes of these filmmakers, Harris offers a unique perspective on the South and its cinematic landscape, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.

Dimension: 224 x 272 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781949608205