Dust—the small particles of matter constantly swirling about us—is the subject of German filmmaker Hartmut Bitomsky's slow, meandering, but oddly absorbing documentary. Dust takes viewers to various places where dust is abundant—such as huge quarries or abandoned factories covered in layers of soot—while also examining how it can cause severe environmental and/or health effects, both in general cases (as in regions affected by volcanic eruptions) and specific instances (such as Oklahoma's Dust Bowl during the 1930s, and New York City after the collapse of the World Trade Center towers). Bitomsky, who narrates in a somber near-monotone, introduces scientists who comment on the impact dust has on human health (including dangerous examples such as depleted uranium particles or asbestos remains), everyday cleaning personnel who fight a continuous battle against dust buildup in offices and museums, and sales reps of firms that manufacture vacuum cleaners and air purification systems. Also featured are humorous asides concerning artists who mount clumps of dust or sell transparent cubes that collect dust in curiously attractive spirals reflecting the passage of time. Bitomsky appears to be suggesting that dust can somehow be seen as a poetic metaphor for the nature of existence itself, but even though it doesn't quite successfully make that connection, Dust cannot be called dry as…well, you know. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Dust
(2007) 90 min. DVD: $440. Icarus Films. PPR. Volume 23, Issue 6
Dust
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