The Fountain - Review

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Length: 96 min

Rated: PG-13

Distributor: Warner Bros.

Release Date: 2006-11-22

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, Ellen Burstyn

Directed by Darren Aronofsky

Produced by Eric Watson, Arnon Milchan, Iain Smith

Written by Darren Aronofsky, Ari Handel

Visit the movie's Official Site!

Reviewed by Scott Gwin : 2006-11-21 02:04:12

Darren Aronofsky is not what you could consider a mainstream director. His movies are visually stunning, intellectually and emotionally challenging, and generally hated by the audience. It takes dedication to make it all the way through an Aronofsky film, something few movie-goers are willing to do. His latest offering, The Fountain, isn't any different in that respect, but if you grant Mr. Aronofsky the luxury of your full attention and bring a little something of yourself to the watching, there's a good chance you'll be rewarded for your effort.

The premise behind the story is painfully simple: a man's struggle to save the woman he loves from dying. That premise is where the simplicity ends and exploration begins. His quest is fractured into three interwoven tales: three men's journeys representing one man's pursuit. Are you confused already? Get used to the sensation. Aronofsky doesn't slow down for the sake of those unable to keep up.

Tomas, a 16th century conquistador, is seeking the fabled Fountain of Youth to save the life of Spain's Queen Isabel who risks death at the hands of a merciless Inquisition. Tommy, a 21st century medical researcher, is desperate to find a cure for the brain tumor which threatens the life of his wife, Izzy. Tom, a 26th century explorer, is making a long and desperate journey, seeking to save what he believes to be the very essence of life itself. In the end all three are the same man, wrestling furiously to answer the same questions about life and love.

This kind of complicated, century spanning storytelling is a daunting task but Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz rise to the occasion with unexpected brilliance and a mesmerizing, refined simplicity. As the man and his beloved respectively, the two strike an amazing resonance with each and every scene. Jackman gives the performance of a lifetime, which is sort of a shame since so few people will likely be able to appreciate it. You've never seen him in a role like this before, and sadly, don't expect to ever see it again. Not because he's not capable, but because parts like this don't come along every day.

Supposing, for a moment, that you don't enjoy The Fountain's plot or style of storytelling, at the very least you can look forward to an overwhelming and awe-inspiring visual experience. Aronofsky tells his tale as much in pictures and visions as he does in words and emotions. Every frame is a piece of art and every moment poetry for the eyes. Especially stunning are elements that connect the three stories into one. Even if you argue that his script is muddled and in need of refinement, there's no denying that visually his film is flawless.

The Fountain is a masterful achievement, one that could very well be ahead of its time. This meshing of philosophical ideas with sci-fi themes works well so long as there are plenty of action sequences and a perfectly linear plotline to keep that popcorn-flick element alive. By contrast, this film stretches the mind and patience to levels that most audiences won't have the strength to withstand. I can only offer this solution: if at first something doesn't make sense or seems completely ridiculous, don't give up; think about it a bit more and you might be surprised by what you find.

For those who are willing and able to take it all in, this is a wonderful, moving, sci-fi experience that will leave you with things to consider and philosophy to debate for a long time to come. For the rest (and likely most), The Fountain is a boring film with really pretty pictures. I don't begrudge you that view. I only hope some future viewing will open your eyes to the incredible experience Arnofsky's film can offer.

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Note: This website is not intended for use by minors. The views expressed in this comments section are not necessarily our own. Comments that we deem to be poorly worded, off topic, or threatening will not be published. For free, uncensored discussion visit our forum.

Reinard Says:
November 27th, 2006 at 08:56
It's unfortunate, but I believe you are right. This movie will not be appreciated by most movie-goers. I remember telling a friend that Black Dahlia was a great movie. He and his girlfriend called me back a few days later and told me it was the worst movie they have ever seen. But that's the mentality of most nowadays. I'm now afraid to actually say anything positive to anyone about The Fountain, because they most likely will blame me for having them "waste" their money. Nevertheless, The Fountain, was the most touching movie I've seen in years, and it doesn't have to literally make sense to me. I'm the type of guy that solves a mystery or thriller in the middle of the movie, and then ruins it for his girlfriend. But sometimes, it's just nice to sit back and accept "fate", instead of analyzing every detail.

Cat Says:
November 27th, 2006 at 11:09
I thought this movie was amazing. I am not the type of person who crys in movies, but after I finished watching it I had like a puddle of tears on my shirt. I think a lot of people will not understand or like this movie but I think it depends on your taste in movies. I don't usually like love stories or movies like this, but this was just great. I honestly loved it. I want to buy it when it comes out. I hope that one day I will find a guy who loves me so much he would do anything to keep me alive!!

Z Geiser Says:
December 5th, 2006 at 20:44
Previously, I had seen none of Aronofsky's films. When I entered the theatre, it was only because my girlfriend wanted to see a romantic movie. Needless to say, the trailer made it look bland. I've cried only twice in my life...really bauling...but this film squeezed several tears from my stone wrought eyes.
For those who can't understand the core concept of the film and what it is, I look forward to the day when you find yourself enlightened. Perhaps then, life will look the way you want it to. But for the many people on this planet that turn a blind eye to the emotional realization this film demands of the audience, and in turn name it a "bad movie," I do feel sorry.
The intertwining of Christianity, Buddhism, and Mayan beliefs display the story in the only way it can be done. I've only picked up on small bits of religion, but one of the strong elements of Buddhism is the sense of collectivism. Everything contains its opposite and the beginning and end are one. In essence, things are not what you perceive them to be, for life is far greater than something man can comprehend. This is art in a way that the American people can love.

Anne Hedley Says:
February 25th, 2007 at 19:13
Poor me I am in the UK and this film I have be dying to see and from what I have read in reviews, critics and strailers this film and it's stars were magnectic and should not have been ignored in the nominations list. But I will confirm that when I see the film

However, The Prestige should have definately been the nominations and so should Hugh Jackman - he is the most talented actor and stage operformer we have today and a complete all rounder and professional.

SylvainB. Says:
May 23rd, 2007 at 14:52
Being a big Aronofsky fan to start with, I bought The Fountain without even reading the synopsis. After the movie ended, I couldn't even talk. It's so beautiful. Besides the fact that I had a hard time accepting that Hugh Jackman wasn't going to take out his Wolverine claws at some point, I felt instantly "in tune" with the movie.

Such a subtle mix of emotion, inner reflexion and beauty... it got straight to my heart. I just called my girlfriend to babble hesitant questions about some brain tumor I hoped she didn't have.

The Fountain, yet another reason for me to promote Aronofsky's talent. It's not designed for large audiences, but you can tell how glad I am to be part of the small target audience.

SB

matilda Says:
August 29th, 2007 at 21:32
my mom loved it.

mike Says:
January 22nd, 2008 at 03:16
greatest love story ever told. if your not a religious person, after this movie you'll realize love is religion.

Constance Says:
February 2nd, 2008 at 21:15
This was a very thoughtful movie. Personally, I perceived it to be about more than love, namely embracing ones nature and fate.
While elements of Buddhism (karma, reincarnation and nirvana) are very pronounced, it doesn't matter what your religion or lack thereof.
We all fear losing loved ones and death and we all are on a quest for immortality in one way or another.
Unfortunately, I have to agree that this movie will only capture a small minority. Someone who lives in a box of doctrines, just waiting for the next adrenaline pumping action flick and with no understanding of various belief systems, will have a hard time following the story line and grasping its profound message.

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