Aronofsky the auteur

Rating: 10/10 (25 November 2006)

In my mind, this film ranks at the top with giants such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and the Shining. It is cinematic excellence with its imagery, both visual and thematic, its cinematography and its inventive camera angles, shot sequences, and unique editing, its mesmerizing soundtrack full of classical but updated melody, its acting prowess: Hugh Jackman delivers an Academy Award winning performance as far as I can see, and Rachel Weisz is fantastic and incredibly believable. Most importantly, The Fountain is the vision of a true auteur director in the model of Stanley Kubrick himself. Aronofsky not only directs, but also has such a huge influence on the score and editing, and is responsible for writing these stories for the screen.
But that's merely what make it a cinematic masterpiece, its story is an incredible blend of culture, philosophy, technology and science, and religion. But in line with what it means, for me, to be a great film, the story illuminates a variety of possible interpretations and hidden metaphors. This film, succinctly, is the magnum opus of a genius who might only be leaving us glimpses of his future potential. Truly, Death is the road to Awe.