A rare and odd cult classic that brings out some hard core fanatics

Rating: 9/10 (3 June 2007)

When I read that some people considered Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain as one of their most anticipated titles ever I laughed...even mocked them because I had no idea that The Fountain had such an intense following or fans. I also had my doubts as to whether or not The Fountain would really impress me. Most of the write ups, descriptions and trailers really don't explain what the film is about at all. The most common description I read was something to the effect of a man traveling through time to try and save the woman he loves but that isn't what The Fountain is at all. The Fountain at it's heart is this moving love story about a medical researcher who has found in his heart and soul in his wife Izzie. Where The Fountain gets it's odd if not beautiful twist is the fantasy aspect based on the book being written by his wife. Following her death he is left with the quest of finishing her book and launches a dream like sequence that is unusual and mind bending and opens up a world of interpretation and discussion for this film.
Hugh Jackman turns in an absolutely stunning performance as 'Tommy.' Jackman's performance is so incredibly emotional and moving and the entire film rests on his persistent state of desire and love and the drive to find the cure for his wife. I think Jackman's performance is in fact award worthy and moving!! Rachel Weisz plays Jackman's wife Isabel Creo. The immediate and established charisma between Jackman and Weisz is astonishing. Aronofsky doesn't bother to try and show a back story between the two, or establish this incredible romance but rather does it so easily and you just feel the emotion between them. Weisz is also very, very good and emotional and looks lovely in the role. The two of them single handedly carry this film and do it flawlessly. You could watch them act off of each other four hours because they are that brilliant although Jackman ultimately outshines. The supporting cast does include some great actors including Ellen Burstyn, Mark Margolis, and Sean Patrick Thomas.
The Fountain is such a deeply intelligent film and as mentioned earlier it's the type of film that can be dissected and discussed and debated and is so complex and obscure but never takes away from the heart of the film which is this intense romance. The Fountain is really something to be experienced and I wish I had paid more attention to it when it was released in 2006. Anyone wanting something a little different, complex and deeply intelligent will find The Fountain just about perfect. 9/10