DRAWING RESTRAINT 13: Instrument of Surrender

About This Movie

Drawing Restraint 13: Instrument of Surrender is a curious piece that melds visual art and cinema in a way that's hard to pin down. The atmosphere is heavy with surrealism, and the pacing can feel oddly hypnotic. You’ve got these American soldiers almost ritualistically engaging with this bizarre structure of petroleum jelly, which is a striking practical effect. Matthew Barney's portrayal of MacArthur adds an unsettling layer; he’s at once authoritative and absurd. Themes of construction, surrender, and the grotesque interplay here create a unique tension, feeling almost like a dream that’s teetering on the edge of nightmare. It’s definitely not for everyone, but that’s what makes it distinctive in the landscape of experimental film.

This film has a somewhat niche release history, with limited formats available. Originally, it had a brief theatrical run and was later released on DVD, which can be hard to come by. Collectors tend to find it interesting due to its experimental nature and the creative vision behind it, though it may not have widespread appeal. Still, for those interested in avant-garde cinema, it holds a unique place worth exploring.