Ecumenopolis Readings is an experimental video snapshot of the greater Auckland region. Footage is generated using a unique device that records video with visual input from the acceleration from a vehicle. The video with it’s accompanying track represents the hectic nature of the city, with the footage sped up to emphasise this notion.

The video has been cut in a non-linear fashion, with footage constantly switching time of day, both to emphasise the strong transition of the cuts and to represent the randomness of the traffic in Auckland. As the goal when commuting within the city is to get from A to B, at any time of day the traffic can be hectic or smooth flowing.

The physical design of the cinematic device incorporates through the influence of acceleration the concept of not only stopping and starting, but changing speeds in traffic. The use of a mirror or semi-reflective perspex in the device shows the interesting effects of perspective in the video. The parts of the frame where the reflected image is rushing past appears to be very fast, when in fact it actually moving past at the same rate as the looking back section of frame.

Music used, with permission, is Eyes of the Jester by Infinite Dimensions
infinite-dimensions.co.uk/