In Line (1985) : distribution, intrigue et streaming

Released in 1985, In Line is a notable film directed by Tony Conrad.

What it’s about. A trisection of the spectators’ power over their own image language: word, trance, and command are installed as valences of the artist’s license, revealed as figures of parental authority. How peculiar that people like being an audience because they enjoy their submission to the authority of the program. This ritual of being dominated is a conspiracy with themselves that we enjoy but refuse to acknowledge. “Oh, no. I don’t like TV because I’m submissive; it’s because it makes me feel good.” The programs are always carefully crafted to be sensitive to people’s selfprotectiveness, even if they offer a good scare, or a good cry. Well, if this is all true, what happens when, by chance, you submit to a program that refuses to be polite about your closet masochism? That tells all? —Tony Conrad

Who’s in it. In Line stars Tony Conrad.

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