Jodorowsky: Spaces as Characters in His Cinematic Universe

Alejandro Jodorowsky is a name that reverberates through the annals of art, known primarily for his unconventional and visionary work in cinema. A filmmaker, writer, and artist, Jodorowsky revolutionized the boundaries of storytelling, merging surrealism, philosophy, and a deep exploration of the human condition into his art. His films, often visually intense and deeply metaphysical, demonstrate a unique trait: spaces are not mere backdrops, but characters in their own right.

In Jodorowsky's world, the environments he creates are not passive. They embody emotions, philosophies, and existential struggles. In movies like El Topo and The Holy Mountain, the landscapes, buildings, and even the colors used in the frame serve as visual metaphors that reflect the inner turmoil or enlightenment of the characters. The spaces around the characters are like physical manifestations of their psyche, shifting and changing as the characters undergo transformation.

Spaces as Characters: The Heart of Jodorowsky’s Vision

The idea that the space itself can act as a character is crucial to understanding Jodorowsky's artistic approach. Each set and every frame in his films holds meaning—every room, every street, and every desert landscape plays a role in advancing the story. The environments around the characters aren’t just settings; they’re extensions of their consciousness. Jodorowsky’s use of exaggerated proportions, the juxtaposition of surreal elements, and the interplay between reality and fantasy all contribute to the sense that the space itself is alive, telling its own story. 

This concept can be directly applied to the world of design. As we enter spaces today—whether in architecture or interior design—we can see how the philosophy of spaces as characters is echoed. The right balance of form, texture, and light can make a room feel like it has its own life force. This is where BlueMonk’s design philosophy resonates strongly. BlueMonk understands that every space tells a story. Each piece of furniture, each choice of lighting, and each texture used in a room carries meaning and contributes to the narrative of that space. Just like Jodorowsky’s cinematic worlds, BlueMonk designs spaces that go beyond mere functionality—they become characters in the lives of those who inhabit them.

When we think about design, we often focus on the tangible—the objects, the furniture, the materials. But much like Jodorowsky’s work, it’s important to consider the invisible, too—the emotions, the energy, the narrative each space can embody. A room can be more than a place to live; it can be a place to transform, to experience new realities, and to step into a world that speaks directly to our subconscious.

A Space to Transform: The Legacy of Jodorowsky

Jodorowsky’s work transcends traditional cinema and moves into the realm of experiential art, where every frame, every setting, and every object carries deeper meaning. His spaces, filled with symbolism, invite us to question the very nature of reality and existence. Similarly, the spaces we design today can become vessels for transformation, offering more than just comfort—they can be places where ideas, emotions, and experiences are shaped.

In the same way that Jodorowsky’s films continue to challenge and inspire, we too can approach the spaces we inhabit with a sense of wonder and intent. Whether it’s through color, lighting, or the thoughtful placement of objects, design is an opportunity to create environments that feel alive, just as Jodorowsky did with his cinematic worlds.

And speaking of transformation, Jodorowsky’s influence extended far beyond cinema. In fact, he would sometimes read tarot cards for free at the café "La Promenade" in Paris on Wednesdays. This little-known fact reveals his connection to the idea of transformation—not just in his art, but in his interactions with people, offering them glimpses of the unknown and the mystical. The café, located at 32 avenue Daumesnil, stands as a small but meaningful part of Jodorowsky’s eclectic legacy, reminding us that even in the most everyday spaces, magic and mystery can be found.