New Netflix series gets the ‘Chef’s Table’ treatment
In spite of the title, “Abstract” is not hard to grasp. The latest series from Netflix, which premiered at the Sundance Festival, spotlights some of the greatest creative minds at the height of their careers.
Animation and shoe technology understood
Taking its cue from the series, “Chef’s Table”, the series is about pure design, which comes across more easily on the screen. And whether it is the animation of Morgan Neville, or the technology of shoe design by Brian Oakes, the series is highly innovative. The crafting of the artist’s creation is what is celebrated in “Abstract”. And while the personal lives of the creatives are barely touched on, the episodes are unusually intimate with the artists.
Reticence defines the artist’s qualities
The depiction of Christoph Niemann’s work, showcased by Neville, easily captures the former’s quirky nature. Neville is often heard off-cam trying to get Niemann to reveal more of himself. And although the artist does not want to give more, the portrait still feels complete. Niemann’s “control freak” qualities are defined by his reticence.
Self-lacing shoes may become a reality
In contrast, the episode following Nike designer Tinker Hatfield’s move from budding athlete to shoe designer is relatively conventional. Using archive materials as well as interviews, Hatfield’s evolution is well portrayed. Even when he talks about the “self-lacing sneakers” from the hit film “Back to the Future II”, the show is full of excitement. And Niemann even tried to develop the sneakers in 2006, “with no success… yet!” he says.
Nike’s airbag idea came from a Paris museum
“Abstract” is rich in excitement, with the creators explaining their inspirations for some of their works. Never knowing where a great idea may come from is also expired with Niemann. He explains how he had the idea to expose the Nike airbag in the sole, after a visit to the Centre Pompidou-Metz museum in Paris.
Political opinions are not included in the series
The series shies away from any political material as well, with no mention of the controversial Nike sweatshops. Nor is there much of a narrative. While both creators are shown working hard on the projects showcased, there is little tension built up around the possibility of success. In the series, Hatfield is desperately trying to make those “power laces” a reality from the science of fiction. And Niemann is attempting to recreate a cover for The New Yorker based on “augmented reality”.
The artists work in a turbulent world
The most fascinating part of the series is watching the focus of the creatives in applying their talents to things we seem to just take for granted. The appreciation is of the artists as much as the art. “Abstract” takes on the optimism of the artists that work in the turbulent world today, and make it captivating. And while the stories could obviously show more urgency in the race to get the creations completed, it is, without a doubt, utterly fascinating to watch.
h/t: Indiewire
