Awe Inspiring

Rating: 10/10 (15 February 2008)

When I first saw this film last year it was immediately in my Top 10.
Having just watched it for second time I can safely say this film is my Top film of all time.
I was almost fearful of watching the film again in case it didn't live up to its initial impression but I had nothing to fear - if anything its even better second time round (if such a film could get better).
I have no intention of trying to break this film down or to analyse or discuss the metaphors and imagery - in my opinion to do that is to negate the beauty of this film.
What I will say is that no film has ever touched me or moved me in the way this one has.
Darren Aronofsky is a true visionary - and the making of this film is 10 years well spent.
Hugh Jackman delivers the performance of a lifetime and whilst her performance does not appear to shine in the same way Jackman does this is because Rachael Weisz is just simply perfect.
I read that originally Brad Pitt & Cate Blanchet were cast as the leads and I am truly thankful that they pulled out. Cate Blanchet is an impressive actress however I feel she would have lacked the warmth that Weisz brings to the role and whilst I am a fan of Brad Pitt I do not feel that he would have been able to deliver in the way that Jackman does.
Aronofsky's genius skilfully & seamlessly links the three stories/periods so the three are essentially (and quite intentionally) one, the cinematography is beautiful and the score is equally impressive.
This film is special.
Thank you Mr Aronofsky.