A Completely Misunderstood Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (21 March 2007)

Given the seemingly mixed reactions to this film, I am totally aware that some people simply do not "get" it. Just because I am aware of their distaste for this film doesn't mean I understand it, because I believe that The Fountain is nothing short of a masterwork.
For those with open minds and hearts, The Fountain is quite a moving film, visually and emotionally. Darren Aronofsky, the director, created a multi-layered picture that works on all levels. The trailers were, I admit, a bit misleading, showing this as a bit more of an epic. Don't get me wrong, the scope of the movie is breathtaking in every way, filled with imagery that stands among the greatest and most powerful in recent memory. However, the heart of the film is a love story.
Hugh Jackman gives a phenomenal performance as a tortured soul desperately seeking a cure for his wife, played by Rachel Weisz with beautiful subtlety. The stories they tell, through their many facets and details, are emotionally gripping and monstrously heartbreaking. The film's conclusion, bringing everything together, is powerful enough to leave you sitting stupefied through the entire credits.
That's not to say that the film is easy to interpret. Everyone has their own opinions on what exactly happened, so needless to say that some will be turned off by that aspect.
But don't let that turn you away from seeing it. Though the film bombed commercially and was robbed of any awards (score and cinematography being the most obvious omissions in award show nominees), I believe The Fountain remains one of the best films of 2006. For those who believe, this film is not one that you will soon forget. It's an unprecedented visual and emotional masterpiece.