Cultblender: Flying Arcade
The Big Question
Flying Arcade (Erwin Fisser, 2006) is about the Big Question; 'why are we here?'. Is there meaning to life or should we just look at our existence as a big game?
Arcade machines are an analogy for life; while playing an arcadegame, there seems to be a goal you have to pursue but in the end, nothing actually happens. Nothing has changed.
But you had fun, right?
The flights of the machines are reminiscent of rollercoaster rides. And again, rollercoaster rides seem to symbolize life itself in the sense that it is a journey where the final destination
doesn't matter: it's all about the ride. (It may be a scary ride, but most of us would like it go on forever)
Besides the arcade machines we also see gasoline pumps distorting the image. Oil and gasoline are the personification of the quest for financial gain and an 'apres moi la luge' outlook on life. Oil may be both our biggest blessing and biggest curse.
Whereas the flying around of computergame machines through a large space may be considered fun, the pumps give the animation a somewhat uncomfortable, uneasy feel.
It may be doubtful or unclear whether or not there is a meaning to our existence, that doesn't mean we have don't have a responsiblity towards this planet and each other to make sure everyone else gets as much pleasure of the ride as we do.