Automatic Filmmaking In a recent filmmaking residency I extended the idea of chance affecting my work by developing my own version of automatic filmmaking. I invented a range of automaton camera operators and self powered automata, set them going, and tried to control the results. Mostly they fell over a lot. Visitors were also invited to join in, helping with the filming and providing suggestions for intertitles. This play between helplessness and control has begun to fascinate me. However, counter to emergence theory, I’m not convinced anything will come of it Automatic Film 1, (in another place), 05’51 This is a film more or less in three simultaneous parts. It opens with an outsider’s view of the wonders of a midnight ball. Next we are introduced to the world of an industrious hopping teaspoon. Finally aimless ships float dreamily through the architectural heavens.