Spem in Alium (1982)

Spem in Alium (1982) poster

"The title of the film is that of the great 40 voice part motet by Thomas Tallis, (1505 -1585) which he composed around 1575, rather recently in geological time. The imagery is a personal response to the music, which soars in its entirety over the duration of the film. The opening line of the motet, translated from Latin, reads as 'I have never put my hope in any other than thee'. Each person will have a unique personal conception of 'Thee', and so it is in life - this mysterious gift that we say we are living - this unrequested gift, this task and calling that we may either accept, avoid, or reject." —Abbott Meader

Director: Abbott Meader
Runtime: 11 min
Release Date:
Music: Thomas Tallis
Country: United States of America
Language: No Language
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Abbott Meader

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spem in Alium about?
"The title of the film is that of the great 40 voice part motet by Thomas Tallis, (1505 -1585) which he composed around 1575, rather recently in geological time. The imagery is a personal response to the music, which soars in its entirety over the duration of the film. The opening line of the motet, translated from Latin, reads as 'I have never put my hope in any other than thee'. Each person will have a unique personal conception of 'Thee', and so it is in life - this mysterious gift that we say we are living - this unrequested gift, this task and calling that we may either accept, avoid, or reject." —Abbott Meader
Who directed Spem in Alium?
Spem in Alium was directed by Abbott Meader.
How long is Spem in Alium?
Spem in Alium has a runtime of 11m (11 minutes).
Where was Spem in Alium produced?
Spem in Alium was produced in United States of America.