In the Shadow of the Sun

‘The Shadow of the Sun’ explores Derek Jarman’s fascination with alchemical processes, using them as a metaphor for transforming Super-8 film. Jarman once referred to the combination of light and matter in film as “an alchemical conjunction” and throughout his career, he experimented with creating dream-like symbolism by layering images and actions. Initially titled English Apocalypse, the film’s final name is inspired by a 17th-century alchemical text that used the phrase to describe the philosopher’s stone—a legendary substance believed to turn ordinary metals into gold and silver. The film was conceived as a step towards the concept of ambient video, akin to ambient music, intended to enrich the surrounding environment.