Well, Surrealism positions itself against Realism (obviously), meaning that it's an attempt to get at dream-logic or symbol-logic rather than rational-logic.

totally understand this feeling:
"and sometimes they can be so exciting that for weeks and months afterward it's impossible to watch a conventional narrative film without feeling vaguely insulted."

"And was just thrilled out of my gourd."
Just another plug for Breaking Away: if you haven't seen it, it's one of the best-written movies of the late-70s. Very quote-able, but subtle at the same time. Manages to comment on everything from class and generational divisions to adolescent aimlessness without feeling…

Fantastic interview,
and I hope she finishes that book. If she's half as honest and witty in the book as she is in this interview, it'll be a great read.