'BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions' Editor on Assembling a Film That's Designed to Be Enjoyed Like an Album
In the age of short attention spans and endless entertainment options, one filmmaker is challenging audiences to slow down and immerse themselves in a cinematic experience that defies conventional storytelling. Kahlil Joseph, the visionary director behind the captivating film "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions," has teamed up with editor Luke Lynch to create a work that is designed to be savored like a musical album.
"BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" is a bold departure from the traditional narrative structure that dominates the film industry. Rather than following a linear plot, the film is a collage of found footage, original cinematography, and poetic vignettes that collectively explore the African American experience. "It's not a traditional narrative film," explains Lynch. "Kahlil wanted to create something more akin to an album, where each segment or 'track' contributes to the overall experience and meaning."
This unconventional approach is a reflection of Joseph's artistic vision. The Los Angeles-based filmmaker has garnered acclaim for his music videos and short films that blend social commentary with visually striking imagery. "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" represents a natural evolution of his signature style, which prioritizes mood, rhythm, and emotional resonance over conventional storytelling.
"Kahlil's work is all about creating an immersive experience," says Lynch. "He's not interested in spoon-feeding the audience a clear-cut narrative. Instead, he wants to provoke a deeper level of engagement and contemplation."
This philosophy presents unique challenges for the editing process. Rather than cutting the film to accentuate a linear plot, Lynch had to approach the material with a more abstract, intuitive mindset. "We spent a lot of time experimenting with the pacing, the juxtaposition of images, and the overall flow of the piece," he explains. "It was more about cultivating a specific emotional tenor than simply moving the story forward."
The result is a film that invites the audience to slow down and savor each moment, much like one would listen to an album. "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" unfolds at its own deliberate pace, allowing viewers to get lost in the rich tapestry of sights and sounds. "Kahlil wanted to create something that feels meditative and immersive," says Lynch. "It's not about delivering a clear message or narrative arc. It's about the journey itself."
This unconventional approach is a departure from the typical Hollywood blockbuster model, which prioritizes fast-paced action, easily digestible storylines, and clear-cut resolutions. "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" is a refreshing antidote to the sensory overload of modern entertainment, challenging viewers to slow down and embrace a more contemplative cinematic experience.
Of course, this type of abstract, album-like filmmaking is not for everyone. Some audiences may find the lack of a traditional narrative structure frustrating or inaccessible. However, for those willing to surrender to the film's hypnotic rhythm and symbolic language, "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" offers a profoundly rewarding and thought-provoking cinematic journey.
"This is a film that rewards patience and attention," says Lynch. "Kahlil is asking the audience to engage with the material on a deeper level, to let go of their preconceptions and immerse themselves in the experience. It's a bold and unconventional approach, but one that I believe has the power to leave a lasting impact."
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, filmmakers like Kahlil Joseph are pushing the boundaries of what the medium can achieve. By eschewing the traditional narrative structure in favor of a more abstract, album-like approach, "BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions" represents a fascinating and innovative step forward for the art of cinematic storytelling.