Magic on Film: The Wormwood Star (1956)
A film study of the artwork of the famed painter and occultist Marjorie Cameron reveals many layers to her complex life and creative expression. Curtis Harrington shared insights with Cameron biographer Spencer Kansa in his book, Wormwood Star: The Magickal Life of Marjorie Cameron. He conveyed that before he began work on the film, he had heard from painter Renate Druks that Cameron had spent a significant period in the desert, attempting, through various magical means, to conceive a child by the spirit of the influential figure Jack Parsons, although ultimately, her efforts proved unsuccessful. While Cameron never directly spoke of Jack during their conversations, Harrington reminisces that he often sensed a depth in her thoughts, as if she would sometimes drift off into a mysterious realm that eluded his understanding entirely. This experience was akin to an apocalyptic mindset, which reflects intensely in her poetry as well. What you should know as you watch this documentary is that the vast majority of Marjorie Cameron’s paintings were tragically destroyed by her—burned in an act that can be seen as both ritualistic and a form of surrender, marking a significant moment in her creative journey.
