Four Hands (2001): Besetzung, Handlung & Streaming

Released in 2001, Four Hands is a notable film directed by Bill Viola.

What it’s about. The hands of three generations are seen in this work – a young boy, father, mother and grandmother. Slowly and deliberately, the four pairs of hands are shown forming a series of predetermined movements. These are taken from sources as diverse as Buddhist mudras (defined ritual or symbolic gestures) and 17th-century English chirologia tables, which illustrate hand gestures that accompany emotional states. Viola explains that the work is “a timeline that encompasses both the parallel actions of the individuals in the present moment and the larger movements of the stages of human life.” It is part of a series called 'The Passions', which is inspired by early European devotional paintings and explores human emotions.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Four Hands page.