The Fountain

Directed by: Darren Aronofsky
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, Ellen Burstyn
Running Time: 1h 36min


From the brilliant mind of Aronofsky comes an independent film feel of a grand science fiction love story that spans centuries in scope, but shoots with a simplicity in mind.

Reminiscent of Kubrick's 2001, as it conjures up futuristic images of space and man transcending to another form, while at the same time, delving into the past and searching for the connections which bind us generationally, The Fountain is a sweeping romance set against the backdrop of man's attempt to use science to defeat destiny and nature.

Jackman and Weisz play triple roles with much conviction, remaining consistent in each time era, while altering their characters just enough to seem like distant reincarnations. After spending much time in development hell, this film has had the good fortune to be embraced by these two leads, as they show why they are two of the better actors on screen right now.

Aronofsky's vision has always been breathtaking, and despite budget slashing and big name A-list actor replacement (Brad Pitt was attached for a long time), his revision of the original concept seems to do more with less. Minimal budgets call for creative stretching, and no one is as creatively stylistic as Aronofsky. If ever there was a director to take up the mantle from Kubrick, it is him, as this film demonstrates.

Classic sci-fi embraces a fantastical element of science and molds it into modern day fabric, revealing more about our present day selves in the process. This is what excellent science fiction is about. Using a probable future to make lessons for a better present. Not alien kill fests or time travel hokiness. The Fountain unfolds slowly, poetically, edging us towards a conclusion we wish for, but are unsure of. Along the way, little reveals are given as the three time tales converge, and each unveils more threads as it unravels.

Using age old myths and legends about the Fountain of Life and biblical promises, Aronofsky's film shows us what masterful storytelling looks and feels like. The actors are almost palpable, as the imagery matches the performances; and though not as shocking or stunningly painful to watch as Requiem for a Dream, The Fountain echoes the maturity and beauty that the director can find in dark places. Certainly a film for cinephiles, and fans of timeless love stories in a Kubrickian/Lynch style. This may perhaps be the best film ever to be shelved, cancelled, rescheduled, switch studios, slash budgets and finally get a release. It's a miracle that Aronofsky managed to salvage a film at all, let alone one as innocently sweet and alarming as this one.

Grade: B+