Karachi non-linear
a Korsakow Film
“Non-linear film is not just a break from tradition, but an invitation to the viewer to become a co-creator, where meaning unfolds through choice, chance, and connection, rather than following a predetermined path”
In this section of The Karachi Archive, we present an alternative approach to the city’s representation through the Korsakow film format. The Korsakow System, developed by Florian Thalhofer, enables the creation of interactive, non-linear films where the narrative is not determined by a fixed sequence, but instead depends on the viewer’s interactions. This form of storytelling contrasts with traditional, linear film structures, offering a dynamic and more personalized way to engage with the material.
The Korsakow System organizes content into discrete segments, each of which can be linked to others through rules set by the filmmaker. As you explore the film, your choices will shape how the narrative unfolds—allowing you to navigate the stories, themes, and experiences of Karachi in a way that is unique to your interaction. You can jump between different topics and perspectives, creating a flexible, immersive experience where the city’s complexity and diversity come to life in a non-linear fashion.
This approach is particularly relevant for a city like Karachi, which is characterized by its complexity, diversity, and constant transformation. By using Korsakow, the project offers a rich, multifaceted representation of Karachi, where themes such as protest, religion, mobility, and social change can be explored in an open-ended, interactive manner.
The use of Korsakow invites a shift in how we think about documentary storytelling. Rather than presenting a fixed view of the city, it allows for a more flexible, open-ended exploration. This aligns with the project’s broader goal of not only documenting Karachi but also critically examining how such representations are created and experienced.
To begin, simply navigate through the segments and follow the paths that interest you—each click leads to a new part of Karachi, allowing you to experience the city from multiple angles. The journey through the film is yours to control.
In contrast to the more structured and linear storytelling found in the archive, the Korsakow film provides an interactive experience that reflects the city’s dynamic and ever-changing nature, offering you a different way to engage with Karachi’s complexity.