Review of The Fountain (2006) by Samson D — 10 Dec 2011

I remember hearing a quote by Fellini where he said, roughly, "I don't believe that rational understanding is an essential element in the reception of any work of art. Either a film has something to say to you or it hasn't.

If you are moved by it, you don't need to have it explained to you. If not, no explanation can make you moved by it." This applies perfectly to Aronofksy's masterpiece, The Fountain. It is incredibly ambitious and abstract, of course, and that might put some viewers off.

If you aren't absorbed by it, no amount of philosophical debate over the merits of this genius work of art will change your mind. But like Fellini said, it's not necessarily about understanding the film, it's about being moved by it.

On first viewing, I really didn't grasp all of it, but I was certainly moved by some of the most beautiful imagery I've ever seen placed on screen, and one of the most epic love stories also. I certainly do not understand all of the parts of this film yet, even after having seen it so many times, but I don't really care.

Every time I watch this film I'm still bewildered by the sheer scope.