Review of The Sacrifice (1986) by Paul J — 14 Dec 2011
Stark, religious, physically and emotionally draining. Tarkovsky's crowning achievement on an astonishing career. Nykvist's cinematography is like painting with light. Its theatrical approach appears almost 3-D at times.
The long takes help us experience time in another way and the pacing draws us into a story that is challenging yet artistically rewarding. Tarkovsky brings us on a journey where we truly feel as if we've descended into despair and darkness.
At one point, we journey through an entire night and then awaken, cathartic, as if after a dream. He then gives us one of the greatest climactic shots in history which literally almost killed him during filming.
Obviously, the film is a major homage to Bergman whom Tarkosvky worshiped. The final image of The Sacrifice blends life, death, God and Tarkovsky's own real-life son gazing up with hope and confidence.
I have never experienced such a profoundly realistic spiritual crisis.
This review of The Sacrifice (1986) was written by Paul J on 14 Dec 2011.
The Sacrifice has generally received very positive reviews.
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