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Deep Dive: The 15th Stone (2007)

Film Lens

The 15th Stone
In 'The 15th Stone', Joáo Bénard da Costa engages in a dialogue with a 96-year-old dean of contemporary film directors. The film is set in a museum room featuring 'The Annunciation', a 1510 oil painting by João Vaz. The two discuss the essence of filmmaking, focusing on the director's role as a creator and magician, and the philosophical aspects of classic movie scenes. The conversation also addresses the significance of color, sound, and music in film, as well as the distinction between art and entertainment. They draw parallels to Leonardo da Vinci, examining the relationship between a master artist and his disciples, reflecting their lifelong dedication to culture and the cinematic arts.

Why Watch

  • Meet João Bénard da Costa and Manoel de Oliveira.
  • Find out about the role of color and sound in film.
  • See a discussion on art versus entertainment.

Did You Know

Joáo Bénard da Costa was the director of the Portuguese National Film Archives.
The film features a 1510 oil painting by João Vaz titled 'The Annunciation'.
The conversation includes a 96-year-old dean of contemporary film directors.
The film has a duration of 121 minutes.

Perfect For

Film enthusiastsArt loversCultural historians