X/78 Rheinhafen

Overview

A day at Basel's Rhine harbor during a time when the city was still characterized by industry. Changing light, reflections, moving shadows, and the undulating surface of the water dominate the film; images alternate between panoramic views of the port with its industrial plants and ships and close-up shots of bollards, quays, and individual parts of buildings. The calm images and the silence (the film lacks sound) convey a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the usually noisy industrial harbor.