Stuart Brisley

Through the experiences of two women in Paris and London, Ghost Dance offers an analysis of the complexity of our conceptions of ghosts, memory and the past. The film focuses on the French philosopher Jacques Derrida, who observes, 'I think cinema, when it's not boring, is the art of letting ghosts come back.' He also says that 'memory is the past that has never had the form of the present.'

This bold film invites sustained, deep engagement as it works through a steady stream of ideas around the theme of resistance, both in its political and psychological manifestations. Artists Stuart Brisley and Marc Camille Chaimovicz assume the roles of historical figures from the French Resistance, and eventually reach breaking point as theatrical limits are met and breached.

Anne Bean, John McKeon, Stuart Brisley, Rita Donagh, Jamie Reid and Jimmy Boyle are interviewed about their artistic practice and the legacy of Surrealism on their work.