ow that computer-generated imagery has become commonplace in nearly every form of visual media, filmmakers seeking genuinely out-of-this-world environments must actively strive to produce bewitching yet believable virtual realities. Yoichiro Kawaguchi has spent years blending innovations in artificial intelligence with electronic animation, and this unique video-and-CD setup presents a rare opportunity to experience his highly imaginative and clearly speculative creations.
The Luminous Visions videotape features 11 discrete scenarios spotlighting computer-created organisms. Each 3-6 minute segment showcases strange, lifelike creatures that meld and merge with their colorful surroundings in surprisingly naturalistic fashions. Mimicking the movements, growth patterns and in some respects even the appearance of simple terrestrial organisms such as protozoa, jellyfish or sea anemones, the denizens of this graphical realm relentlessly morph into various shapes and structures.
The sections feature names like "Perpetual Fusion," "Spherical" and "Liquid Life," and, although not specifically choreographed to music, they're complemented by instrumental selections from the band Tangerine Dream. Full-length renditions of these tunes are contained on a separate CD, which comes with the videotape, and both items are packaged in a box indicating that the set is a limited-edition release.
Drawing from Darwin
Nearly every segment of Luminous Visions deals with physical development in one form or another, from the aquatic animals of "Sea Dance," which mutate into increasingly complex creatures, to the fast-paced expansion of the tubular organisms in "Exponential Growth." The overall work also possesses an evolutionary theme, as the focus progresses from the simple flagellates of "The Conception" through the formation of a humanoid child in "Morphological Inception" to the synthetic faces of "Exotica."
Watching the diverse entities propagate and propel themselves through their respective environments is certainly entertaining, and while the tape lacks a substantive plot, Kawaguchi's energetic intermingling of AI and morphogenesis makes the enterprise surprisingly engaging. Even the soundtrack is attractive, although erstwhile fans of Tangerine Dream will find these contemporary compositions to be significantly more melodic than the act's earlier, largely ambient output.
The weird metallic sheen and gravity-defying movements of the on-screen animals evince an uncanny energy, but regrettably there are a couple of flaws that prevent viewers from becoming wholly mesmerized by the video. On occasion the images inexplicably shudder, and in many passages the picture and music fade out just as the action becomes truly engrossing. Nevertheless, even with these shortcomings Luminous Visions remains a dynamic and enjoyable diversion.
