REVIEW: The Fountain · 20 December 06
Are you bored of Hollywood’s latest creations? Are you tired of switching off the grey matter and just absorbing garbage at a frantic pace and leaving the theater feeling like you have been ripped off? You owe yourself the pleasure of viewing this film.
Many of the film’s critics harp on what this project could have been. Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett were originally signed up to star in this film. Principal photography began in Australia as early as 2002. The project was given the “go ahead” for $70 million. How would this film have turned out? I don’t know, and frankly I don’t care. However, so many film critics have given this film a negative review based on this assumption.
Director Darren Aronofsky didn’t give up after losing these so called “megastars.” He continued on and hired Hugh Jackman to be his protagonist. I think this was a wise choice. Jackman puts on a performance worthy of an Academy Award.
The Fountain tells the tale of a 16th century Conquistador on the quest to save Spain, a modern day scientist struggling to find a cure for his wife’s disease, and a 26th century nebula bound astronaut. These tales are seamlessly woven into an intricate story fabric that at first leaves one confused then in awe in the final half. It is at this point that the real journey reveals itself and the amazement begins.
On the surface, The Fountain is a fairly simple love story. Unravel the layers, however, and another story is revealed. The ending and “true” story are ambiguous and open to interpretation, but according to Aronofsky there is an answer. The journey to discover that answer is up to the viewers.
Matthew Libatique handles the cinematography deftly. According to Aronosfky, the golden-hue applied throughout is intentional but for what reason I will leave for you to decide. Each shot is carefully planned and deliberate. Upon a second viewing I caught some detail that helps explain some of the other scenes in the film. There is nothing left to chance.
The minimalist special effects are not only an effect of the budget slashing, but also a creative choice. Aronofsky sought out a “natural” technique for creating star field and nebula scenes, so he hired a micro-photographer. Using high-powered lenses, the effects manager filmed chemical reactions in Petri dishes to create an organic feel the 26th century scenes. These shots come alive in the third act of the film and are truly breathtaking.
Equally amazing is the score by Clint Mansell. Mansell teamed up with the Kronos Quartet again, and hired Scottish rock band Mogwai. The collaboration lends to a score that is progressive and intense. This is a score worthy of an Original Music Academy Award.
The Fountain has been compared to 2001. Both are ahead of their time; both are conceptually daring; both are both loved and hated. For me, this film was truly profound and enjoyable. It is a shame that the critical mass trashed the film into the red. My only hope is more directors will bring forward audacious and entertaining films like The Fountain.