Roger the Rat Movie Premiere - A film by Roger Ballen

Premiere Event: Roger the Rat Film Screening

Date: Tuesday, May 28th, 2024

Time: 6pm for 6:30pm

Venue: Bioscope Independent Theatre  44 Stanley Ave Milpark Johannesburg

Join the Inside Out Centre for the Arts in proudly presenting an exclusive premiere event of "Roger the Rat," the latest short film (25 minutes) by renowned photographer and artist Roger Ballen. Conceived and completed during the lockdown period in South Africa, this cinematic masterpiece offers a unique commentary on the zeitgeist of our time. Inspired by the publication of the same name, released by Hatje Cantz Berlin, the film encapsulates Ballen's distinct Ballenesque aesthetic, oscillating between fantasy, dark humor, and unceasing absurdity.

In "Roger the Rat," Ballen introduces us to a part-human, part-rat creature living an isolated life outside mainstream society. Through a series of uncanny black-and-white imagery and surreal narratives, Ballen delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring hidden forces that shape our existence. The film follows Roger the Rat as he navigates through abandoned spaces, interacting with discarded mannequins in a desperate attempt to find companionship and understanding.

Directed by Justin Elgie and featuring Daniel Buckland, an internationally recognized Mime actor, "Roger the Rat" promises a thought-provoking journey into the surreal subterranean world of Ballen's imagination. Sublimely artistically directed by long time collaborator Marguerite Rossouw, with meticulous editing by Mushroom Media and captivating sound design by Produce Sound, this cinematic experience is bound to leave a lasting impression.

6:00pm - Doors open

6:30pm - Film to commence

7:00pm - Conversation between Roger Ballen, Marguerite Rossouw, Daniel Buckland and Justin Elgie

7:30pm - Book signing by Roger Ballen

Visit www.rogerballen.com for a glimpse into Ballen's illustrious career and to view the trailer for "Roger the Rat."

Come be a part of this unforgettable cinematic experience. Surreal, refined, and disturbing—Roger Ballen invites you to journey under the sign of the rat.

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