Michelangelo Antonioni’s 1966 film Blow-Up is a post-modernist piece set in the mod era of 1960s London, following a fashion photographer, grappling with perception of reality, and the search for meaning in his creative work.
In arguably the most iconic scene [linked], the main character, Thomas, wanders into a concert with a cameo by none other than The Yardbirds, especially memorable because it features Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page during their brief overlap in the band's lineup. But what's more is the absurdism Antonioni layers into it.
Allegedly, Antonioni originally wanted The Who for the scene, who was already known for Pete Townshend’s guitar-smashing, but getting them would have "blown up" ;) the budget of the film.
That bit of trivia only deepens the absurdity of Jeff Beck smashing his guitar. What was once an act of raw, rebellious energy is portrayed as hollow, almost mechanical aggression. Meanwhile, a stage tech casually tries to fix the amp, underscoring how these once-authentic acts can become ritualized, drained of their original meaning. The tone of the scene is heightened as Thomas drifts through it all, eventually catching the broken guitar neck like a souvenir, only to discard it moments later—a perfect example of randomness and futility woven throughout the film.
Great film for:
- Dissociative film photographers
- Those inflicted with impostor syndrome
- Mimes who enjoy tennis
- Swinging London nostalgia whores