Naqoyqatsi

Naqoyqatsi is the third film in Godfrey Reggio's Qatsi film trilogy, following Koyaanisqatsi and Powaqqatsi. The title is a word from the Hopi language, meaning "life as war" or "life in transformation." Unlike its predecessors, which used extensive on-location footage and a cast of thousands, Naqoyqatsi is almost entirely composed of archival footage and digital manipulation. The film explores themes of technology, globalization, and their impact on human life and society. It features a distinctive score by Philip Glass, which incorporates synthesized sounds and electronic textures, reflecting the film's technological focus.

The visual style of Naqoyqatsi is characterized by its extensive use of digital compositing, animation, and visual effects applied to existing film and video sources. This creates a dynamic and often abstract representation of the modern world, showcasing the pervasive influence of technology and the interconnectedness of global systems. The film does not feature a linear narrative or spoken dialogue, relying instead on the interplay of images and music to convey its message. Reggio intended Naqoyqatsi to be a contemplation on the state of humanity in the face of rapid technological advancement and the resulting transformations of culture and consciousness. The film invites viewers to consider their own place within this evolving global landscape.