Emerging at the dawn of his nouveau “French period,” this extraordinary apparition from Buñuel takes the form of one of his favorite social stages: the dinner party. Imprisoned within their own nonsensical social structure “out of politeness,” the guests cannot escape their own soiree. Ridiculous party banter, veiled insults and invented scandals give way to outrageous carnal depravity exposing their true ugliness. Buñuel takes the critique beyond simple satire – such as when they slaughter sheep meant for household entertainment. In fact, the very fabric of time and space immobilizes them in discontinuity, repetition, and a confusion of reality and fantasy – drawing parallels to the spectating theater audience. Providing inspiration for Godard’s Weekend, The Exterminating Angel is a hysterical revolt against oppressive civilization and its willing victims. – BG