ANOTHER ON THE LIST OF GREATS

Here I am still trying to finish the reviews of that top ten list I made back in January. After a week of reflection on being comfortable in the moment, I thought it apropos to review what I believe to be the most moving film I have seen in a very long time: The Fountain.

Where to begin. I had heard about this movie several years ago. I wasn't very eager to see it, but the hoopla around it was interesting to follow. Initially, Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett were signed to star. At the last minute Mr. Pitt pulled out. This left the industry wondering whether the director, Darren Aronofsky, could live up to the hype surrounding him. He was one of many new young directors who had made a couple of films that were very well received. Well he stuck with it despite everyone telling him to let this movie die. This passion made me want to see it all the more.

After a long wait, I finally got my wish. And I wasn't disappointed. This film is easily described in one word-beautiful. Everything about it is incredible: the story, the acting, the cinematography. It was virtually ignored by the industry and that doesn't surprise me. The story is a little out there. It is a love story that unfolds in three time periods: 16th century Spain, present day, and the 26th century. I think where it loses it's audience is in Aronofsky's vision of the future. It is very trippy, but if you can understand what's happening, this segment brings everything full circle.

What I love the most about this movie is the message. In a nutshell, live every day to the fullest. It's something I definitely have not perfected, but it is good to have reminders like this. It comes out on dvd May 15th (the same day as Pan's Labrynth), so check it out.