Unpacking the Layers of *Resurrection*
Like phoenixes rising from the ashes, films often find rejuvenation in fresh narratives. In *Resurrection*, Bi Gan sparkles in his storytelling and visual flair, presenting a labyrinthine journey that pays homage to the art of cinema itself. It's a celebration that stitches together dreams, memories, and the visceral experience of film-going.
The Audacious Deliriant
The protagonist, known as the Deliriant, masterfully navigates his chameleon-like existence across an array of scenes that evoke century-old cinematic techniques. Since early cinema often blended sound, visuals, and imagination into a single enthralling tapestry, Bi pulls us into this swirling narrative that ultimately elevates cinema itself. One standout segment involves a glassy mirrored labyrinth, invoking Orson Welles' *The Lady from Shanghai*, where chaos and beauty intertwine like an elusive duet.
“In a wild and brutal era, people have learned that the secret to eternal life is to not dream.”
The Poetic, Yet Puzzling
Throughout *Resurrection*, we are thrust into moments that bewilder, yet captivate. Bi's work pays homage to the concept of film as a light shining through the shadows of our collective consciousness. In one sequence, the characters play out a dance of mirages, challenging our perception of reality and dream. His fusion of narrative and aesthetic beauty is sophisticated and playful, leaving us simultaneously ponderous yet enthralled.
Visions of Dream and Reality
- Early Cinema Influence: Bi embraces the ethos of early filmmaking by invoking elements like title cards and simple yet powerful visuals that echo the silent era.
- Philosophical Undertones: The film weaves existential dialogues into the narrative, asking viewers to contemplate the purpose of dreams and the art of storytelling.
- Visual Feasts: Each scene transitions through color palettes that speak volumes, allowing emotions to translate without words. The resonance of light and shadow becomes as much a character in the story as the Deliriant himself.
A Film for Today
While this film could be dismissed as an elegy for cinema, it uplifts instead, encouraging a renewed enthusiasm for the medium. Each character and scenario is imbued with a pulse of life, reminding us that the act of storytelling is as essential today as it ever was. In a world increasingly plagued by quick, disposable content, *Resurrection* serves as an intricate reminder of the vast narratives that await in this enduring art form.
Conclusion: The Future of Cinema
As the Deliriant races towards an uncertain future, the film proposes a curious possibility: maybe cinema is not a relic, but a living, breathing organism that continually evolves through creativity and passion. As we stagger and soar alongside the characters, we begin to understand that the heart of cinema—just like the Deliriant—is vibrant, yearning, and undeniably alive.
Resurrection
Not rated. In Mandarin, with subtitles. Running time: 2 hours 40 minutes. In theaters now.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/11/movies/resurrection-review-bi-gan.html
