Filled with silly, pretentious, artsy metaphysics and loved every minute of it

Rating: 10/10 (24 November 2006)

I can understand why a large number of people would not like this movie. This movie is not escapism, which turns many people away. There is nothing wrong with escapism: after working or studying all week many people just want rest their brain for 2 hours on the weekend, and escape from seriousness. This film takes itself seriously, but because it isn't merely a character drama or a political film, people find it pretentious. Finally, the movie is filled with religious, philosophical, and holistic symbolism, which may come off as silly to some. If you think those points I mentioned would not detract you from seeing this film, then keep reading. This IS one of the better Science Fiction films since "2001", mainly because it thinks beyond telling a simple hero story with gadgets. While it does have a bit of neuroscience and astronomy laced in there, the themes are more about philosophy's biggest questions, and it does not ask them in a simple or patronizing way. The acting is also very powerful from both leads, the visual effects are gorgeous, and the music is great. I also don't think those who call it a jumbled mess are giving it a valid critique: like Kubrick, Aronofsky uses an unconventional narrative structure to give the themes more coherence than the story, and does this with skillful technique much like "2001" or "Eyes Wide Shut". I have never seen "Pi" or "Requiem for a Dream", so I really can't compare it to his previous works. I will say that I came out of the movie struck by its beauty and emotion, and dwelled on its intellect for days. This is one of my favorites, and I will definitely be seeing this one quite a few more times.