The Fountain proves at least one thing: that Clint Mansell might one day rival Carter Burwell for creating the most engaging, memorable and evocative film scores of our time. Other than that, The Fountain is a more theatrical version of Solaris a la Soderbergh -- from the story (or lack of it) to the visuals (nebulas on parade!) to the tone (cosmic yearning for a beautiful woman). I can appreciate any movie that makes me think -- that actively requires my participation -- but I find myself at a dead end with this one. It's a lovely dead end, adorned with flowers and bursting lights and broad brushstrokes, but a dead end nonetheless. "Life ends," Aronofsky says. "Death reigns. Look to the stars and you'll see proof." Right, now, where's our catharsis? Hop over to Cinephilia for a spot-on dialogue about the movie's merits, and how we all hoped they'd be grander. Or see Nathaniel R., who wisely views the movie as personal expression and no more.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
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3 comments:
It took about 10 seconds for me to think I wasn't going to dig this movie. And I didn't. Too weirdo and abstract. And I'm a weirdo, so that says a lot. Also, too much Hugh crying.
Yes! I coldn't agree with you more about Mansell! (And Burwell, actually.) I loved the score as well. Need. To. Purchase. (I was very disappointed that my soundtrack distributor friend wasn't working this one. Pooh.)
I really liked the movie, in part because I still couldn't wrap my head around it completely at the end. (Which I like.) I found it to be very much like 2001: A Space Odyssey, which I suppose in some circles would be hubris. I want to see it again... but have no idea when that will happen.
I also want to view again. My affection for The Fountain's reckless abandon has grown since seeing it on Saturday, and Mansell's tri-tonal theme has been resounding in my brain continuously.
I do not think the comparison to 2001 is foolhardy. 2001 is just a movie, like this one. They both use images, not story. That said, The Fountain is still more Solaris than 2001. Although Soderbergh was leagues more restrained.
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