Myth of Man Review: Visually Transcendent

There aren’t many filmmaking stories that are as long, dedicated and incredible as the story of Jamin and Kiowa Winans and their project Myth of Man. 

Back in 2015, the Winans sold their home to fund this very project and they crafted every prop, costume and visual effect (over 3,500 in total) themselves.

The film took seven years with three additional years in script-writing and score composition and what we’re left with is something truly unique with a beating heart of emotion that takes us on a transcendent and breathtaking journey, albeit a confusing one for a simple mind such as myself.

Myth of Man plays out like a work of art as we experience the world through the eyes of Ella (Laura Ranch) who is a deaf-mute artist in this weird steampunk world with a futuristic twist. 

The entire film is devoid of dialogue and sound and atmospherics are given to us to immerse us in the soundscape of Ella’s environment despite her character not being able to hear a thing.

What results is a silent film of sorts with an ASMR-style backdrop that plays throughout the full 2 hours of the movie duration but somehow manages to convey every emotion you can think of without saying a single word.

The universe merely exists around Ella acting as a visual smorgasbord to indulge our eyes whilst it’s the characters who drag you in and keep you curious.

We have four main characters within Myth of Man, the aforementioned Ella.

Seeg played by Anthony Nuccio who I can’t explain what he does other than destroy art.

Boxback (Martin Angerbauer) a thug who can use his voice to hurt people, a character I knew instantly would have an X account and last but not least we have Caley (Ian Hinton) who is a pickpocket with a heart of gold.

As we weave through Ella’s perspective the story (from what I could tell) is based on Ella convinced she’s received a message from the device, a calling to connect with her creator.

The people living in Ella’s world believe in a creation myth tied to a comet that streaks across the sky.

According to legend can help you communicate with the creator by singing the right song and it’s Ella’s mission to gather these songs.

I must admit the film does get rather confusing at times but you’re merely captivated by just how it looks on screen and demands you to focus on it and construct its layers.

Residents of this city are adorned with green lights on their shoulders, simulating a health meter and once they are ill or are ageing their lights seem to fade before they go out entirely, when they pass on.

It’s a very unique look on love, loss, faith and the human connection told by these cyborgs (sort of) and yet I can’t quite take my eyes off it.

With me being of the younger persuasion I did feel as though a two-hour runtime would deter people from watching an entire dialogue-less movie but this film will certainly find its audience.

Writer / Director Jamin Winans said the following about the release:

We’re so grateful for the overwhelming response to Myth of Man. Fans have travelled from all corners of the world—by plane, train, and car—to see it on the big screen, get posters signed, and experience the magic for themselves. The reaction has been truly humbling, and we’re thrilled to continue expanding the release to more audiences.

Myth Of Man has already proven to be a fan favourite, sparking excitement that has propelled the film to open week-long runs in New York City, Los Angeles and Denver, with more engagements to follow in major cities.