Hobbyist (2024)
Description: “A woman looks through the microscope lens... and sees more than just particles. She sees war.”
Hobbyist is a dynamic experimental microscopic film, made from a mix of military drones’ found footage and footage of microscopic aquatic animals and plants. When looking at microorganisms under a microscope, one can find bizarre similarities between them and us: they play, eat, and build somewhat social structures. On the other hand, when looking at military drone footage from ever-growing wars around the world, which is widely accessible on the internet, one cannot help but see all the similarities between us—intelligent life forms—& them—microscopic, aquatic, single-celled species. This film is an effort to draw out these similarities and ask questions about the notions of war, peace, and the state of living. With the militarization of technology and tech startups increasingly investing in military projects, the concept of taken-for-granted security for the modern humans pales every day. As the war machine never stops, this film will adapt itself with new footage every year.
The film premiered at several venues across Berlin, including Silent Green and Kunstraum Reuter in 2025.
Medium: Experimental Film, Microscope Film, Immersive Sound (Dolby Atmos), 1-Channel Video
Concept and Sound: Sel Alizadeh
Genre: Experimental Film, Art Film
Runtime: 7 minutes
Watch: on demand, contact via website.