The Surreal Rise of Existential Cinema: Why We’re All Becoming Furniture
Amanda Kramer’s By Design, a film that premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and released in theaters February 13, 2026, isn’t just a quirky story about a woman who swaps consciousness with a chair. It’s a bellwether for a growing trend in cinema and, arguably, in our collective psyche: a fascination with the blurring lines between self and object, and a questioning of what it truly means to be “seen.”
Beyond Body Swap: The Appeal of Inanimate Perspective
The premise of By Design – Juliette Lewis as Camille, finding solace and perhaps liberation in becoming a chair – taps into a deeper cultural current. While body swap narratives aren’t new, the choice of an inanimate object as the destination is strikingly different. It’s not about experiencing another human life. it’s about escaping the pressures of human existence altogether. This resonates with a growing sense of alienation and a desire for simpler forms of being.
Kramer herself notes the film originated from observing people’s fascination with celebrities, and possessions. “Why are we envying the way she looks? Why don’t we envy the dress itself?” she asked, sparking the idea of finding beauty and desire in the non-human. This speaks to a broader trend of finding comfort and meaning in the material world, particularly as human connection feels increasingly fragile.
The “NEXT” Wave: Sundance and the Avant-Garde
The film’s selection for the NEXT section at Sundance is significant. Programmer Ash Hoyle described By Design as “definitional” of the section, praising its “simplicity and vigor” and “pure audacity.” The NEXT section consistently showcases films that push boundaries and challenge conventional storytelling. This suggests a growing appetite for experimental narratives that explore unconventional themes.
This isn’t simply about shock value. Films like By Design offer a space to explore complex emotions – longing, isolation, the desire for recognition – through a uniquely detached lens. The absurdity of the premise allows for a deeper engagement with these themes, free from the constraints of realism.
The Emotional Core: Why Juliette Lewis Matters
Despite the surreal concept, the film’s emotional impact hinges on Juliette Lewis’s performance. Lewis herself found a surprising resonance with the script, describing it as a story about someone “who wants to be seen and isn’t seen.” This highlights a crucial element: even in the most outlandish scenarios, relatable human emotions remain central. Mamoudou Athie’s character, Olivier, further emphasizes this, finding connection with the chair – and, by extension, Camille – in a way he struggles to achieve with other people.
The Future of Feeling: Trends in Existential Storytelling
By Design isn’t an isolated incident. Several emerging trends suggest a continued exploration of these themes in film and other media:
- Object-Oriented Narratives: Expect more stories that grant agency or perspective to non-human entities – not just chairs, but buildings, landscapes, or even algorithms.
- The Deconstruction of Identity: Films and series will likely continue to challenge traditional notions of self, exploring fragmented identities and the fluidity of consciousness.
- The Rise of “Slow Cinema”: A focus on atmosphere, mood, and internal states, rather than plot-driven narratives, will create space for more contemplative and emotionally resonant experiences.
- Increased Use of Surrealism and Dream Logic: Filmmakers will increasingly employ surreal imagery and non-linear storytelling to reflect the fragmented and often illogical nature of modern life.
Did You Realize?
The production of By Design took place in Los Angeles, with filming commencing in September 2024.
FAQ
Q: What is By Design about?
A: It’s a drama film where a woman named Camille swaps bodies with a chair.
Q: Who directed By Design?
A: Amanda Kramer wrote and directed the film.
Q: When was By Design released?
A: The film was released in theaters on February 13, 2026.
Q: Who stars in By Design?
A: The film stars Juliette Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Melanie Griffith, Samantha Mathis, Robin Tunney, and Udo Kier.
Q: Where did By Design premiere?
A: It premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 23, 2025.
Pro Tip: Look for films from the Sundance NEXT section for cutting-edge, experimental storytelling.
What are your thoughts on the idea of finding solace in the inanimate? Share your perspective in the comments below!
