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Architecting One of the Year’s Most Ambitious Films
In a cinematic landscape where predictability and formulaic storytelling reign supreme, Denis Villeneuve’s “Eternal” stands as a beacon of innovation and originality. The film’s bold structure, which defies traditional narrative expectations, is not only a testament to the director’s audacity but also a reflection of his profound understanding of human nature.
Speaking about the unconventional approach he took with the movie, Villeneuve emphasized his desire to subvert classical storytelling techniques. “I don’t want to watch a movie where in the first five to 10 minutes you know exactly how it’s going to end,” he said during an interview. Instead, the director opted for a non-linear narrative that eschews traditional character development and instead focuses on capturing the essence of his protagonist.
Villeneuve’s commitment to creating something truly unique is evident in every aspect of “Eternal.” The film’s use of non-DigiBeta footage adds an air of authenticity to the story, while its exploration of themes like existentialism and melancholy further underscores the director’s willingness to push boundaries.
However, it was Villeneuve’s approach to his protagonist that truly sets this film apart. By deliberately withholding Adrien Brody’s character from having a voice in the retrospective sequence at the end of the movie, the director masterfully captures the crushing weight of mortality and the impermanence of human achievement.
The quote from Cormac McCarthy – “His spirit is exhausted at the peak of its achievement. His meridian is at once his darkening and the evening of his day” – perfectly encapsulates this sentiment. It’s a profound commentary on how even our greatest achievements are ultimately fleeting, leaving us with nothing but regret and emptiness.
In an era where cinematic storytelling has become increasingly stale and predictable, “Eternal” represents a breath of fresh air. By daring to challenge the status quo, Villeneuve has created something truly remarkable – a film that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
It’s this ambition that sets “Eternal” apart from its contemporaries. The film is not just an exercise in creative risk-taking; it’s also a powerful exploration of the human condition.
Source: www.theverge.com
