Fragments of Paradise is the new documentary chronicling the life and work of Jonas Mekas. It’s an intimate portrait constructed from thousands of hours of his own video and film diaries—including never-before-seen tapes and unpublished audio recordings. It is a story about finding beauty amidst profound loss, and a man who tried to make sense of it all... with a camera!
Fragments of Paradise arrives to Dogwoof On Demand from 2 June, click below to pre-order.
Who was Jonas Mekas?
The ‘godfather of avant-garde cinema’ Jonas Mekas is heralded as one of the most influential figures of experimental cinema. Born in Lithuania and later an influential figure in New York City's art scene, he fearlessly pushed the boundaries of filmmaking.
Mekas’ films were deeply personal, capturing the essence of his own life and those around him. From Andy Warhol to Allen Ginsberg, he documented the luminaries of his time, preserving their legacies for generations to come.
Ahead of its release, we’re deep-diving into his rich filmography, spotlighting 6 of his most iconic works. Scroll below to journey into the work of avant-garde cinema!
Planning a Mekas binge-watch!? You can keep track of your progress with our JONAS MEKAS LETTERBOXD LIST!
1. As I Was Moving Ahead Occasionally I Saw Brief Glimpses of Beauty (2000)
Director Jonas Mekas provides an intimate glimpse of his personal life by constructing a feature length narrative from over 30 years of private home movie footage.
2. Reminiscences of a Journey to Lithuania (1972)
A 1971–72 documentary film revolving around Mekas’ trip back to Semeniškiai, the village of his birth.
3. Diaries, Notes, and Sketches (1969)
An epic portrait of the New York avant-garde art scene of the 60s.
4. Lost, Lost, Lost (1976)
Jonas Mekas adjusts to a life in exile in New York in his autobiographical film, shot between 1949 and 1963.
5. Guns of the Trees (1961)
A depressed woman, Barbara, is on the verge of suicide while a man she meets in a church and a married couple try to convince her that life is worth living.
6. Out-Takes from the Life of a Happy Man (2012)
“A motion picture composed of brief diaristic scenes not used in completed films from the years 1960-2000; and self-referential video footage taped during the editing. Brief glimpses of family, friends, girl-friends, the City, seasons of the year, travels. Occasionally I talk, reminisce, or play music I taped during those earlier years, plus more recent piano improvisations by Auguste Varkalis. It’s a kind of autobiographical, diaristic poem, celebration of happiness and life. I consider myself a happy man.” - Jonas Mekas