RR

In Benning's latest cinematic endeavor, he presents an enthralling exploration of the American landscape through the lens of trains. A visual odyssey that spans over two and a half years, "RR" showcases 216 shots of these magnificent machines as they traverse diverse terrain, serving as both a testament to the nation's development and a critique of its consumption-driven culture.The film delves into the political implications of trains as instruments in this consumer society, underscoring these themes as Eisenhower's speech on the military-industrial complex accompanies a mile-long coal train barreling through eastern Wyoming. Benning masterfully captures the visual allure, romance, and nostalgia associated with these locomotives, making "RR" not only an ode to the trains themselves but also to the 16mm film format – a medium that the director has announced will be his last.Throughout the film, viewers are treated to the stunning variety of train colors, speeds, trajectories, and resonating echoes, each shot contributing to an intricate tapestry of American history, technology, and culture. "RR" is a riveting exploration of our nation's past and present through the lens of its iconic railways.