Cat Power: Speaking For Trees: A Film By Mark Borthwick

By its nature, a DVD shouldn't be more enjoyable with eyes closed. Speaking For Trees: A Film By Mark Borthwick is either a huge artistic conceit or a cheeky practical joke; either way, its soundtrack saves the day. The film essentially consists of one long static shot that captures Chan Marshall, the lone voice behind Cat Power, performing in a wooded area. The camera, grainy and arty, never gets close enough to show her facial expressions, but instead simply sits there, quietly watching Marshall sing and play guitar. Perhaps it's a comment on the singer's strange character and emotional distance, but more likely, it's a semi-interesting indulgence executed without regard for its potential audience.