“The Fountain” (2006) presents an abstract science fiction tale directed by Darren Aronofsky. The film follows a man’s thousand-year quest to save the woman he loves, using the symbolic concept of the mythical Tree of Life. The narrative moves between representational stories and images, focusing on the theme of life and death, and the pursuit of immortality.
In one timeline, a 16th-century Spanish conquistador aims to find the tree to save his queen from the Inquisition. In another, a modern-day scientist seeks a medical breakthrough to save his cancer-stricken wife. The most abstract concept finds the character seeking eternal life within the confines of a floating sphere transporting the aged Tree of Life through space.
The film is more avant-garde than Aronofsky’s previous work, almost completely abandoning conventional story structure for a more cinematically abstract approach. Originally rated R by the MPAA, it was re-edited for a PG-13 rating.
“The Fountain” delves into various genres including drama, fantasy, romance, science and technology, action, adventure, science fiction, spirituality, and philosophy.
