This film is quite unexpected. Darren Aronofsky has the ability to stir your reactions, in Pi and Requiem for a Dream he does so violently and without remorse. In The Fountain he does so all to subtly at times, weaving a story across time and awareness, about death, belief and love. It actually brought a couple of tears to my eye—almost unheard of. And this set with all the oil lamps and unending arches, oh man, I want to be there.

Some of scenes are unbearably new age with transcendental posturing, but are nonetheless beautiful and help one perhaps understand the mind of the main character—something Aronofsky brings to the fore. The distinct stories weave together but ultimately the plot is morbid, perhaps not unexpectedly.

Are there three stories—past present and future? I felt that “future” was really an escapist mental state, manifesting his desire and actions to do good for his wife.

I have now seen this movie twice, and I love it. Admittedly, it is undeniable that the storytelling is somewhat fractured, but the movie is arranged in such a way that I’m really not bothered by the fact at all. The acting is perfect and the visuals and soundtrack are surreal and otherworldly.

A common complaint is that there isn’t enough development to get attached to any of the characters. In my opinion, after seeing how deeply Hugh Jackman’s character is affected by his wife’s condition, it would be quite difficult not to empathize with him.

I’ve got to say though, I’m not a fan of the bald-Jackman-in-lotus-position.

The director clearly loves his wife. The film is almost an homage to Rachel Weisz which is not a bad thing. I’m not sure the plotting works but it certainly keeps you thinking all the way through.

I didn’t really know what I was getting into when I started watching The Fountain. If I had known the premise of the film, I might have brought different expectations to the viewing. As it was, I was shocked within five minutes. And the movie had me questioning throughout. Is love forever? What is real and what is imaginary? Did Hugh Jackman really shave his head or is he wearing a bald cap? While I’m still resolving my feelings on death and rebirth, I was stunned by the gorgeousness of the special effects and design of the overall film.