The Fountain

10

SteLDec 17, 2006

Wonderful and very moving. Easily the best movie I've seen this year. Don't go into this movie not expecting to think (as some of these critics obviously did).

1 of 1 users found this helpful

10

NDNov 28, 2008

Anything that Hollywood turns out which makes you think, feel, and learn all at the same time is bound to get terrible reviews from all the famous tunnel-visioned critics. It's beautiful, audacious, and every time you watch it, you come Anything that Hollywood turns out which makes you think, feel, and learn all at the same time is bound to get terrible reviews from all the famous tunnel-visioned critics. It's beautiful, audacious, and every time you watch it, you come away with something new. There's not a raiting for that.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

10

tech953Aug 29, 2010

this movie is a clear work of genius it brings many ideas and concepts to the table and translates them with near perfect precision.
Coupled with a unforgettable musical score, this movie made me cry and stare in wonder at the same time.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

M_AlexSep 14, 2010

I love this movie. I saw it in the cinema, and I return to it pretty often. However, it should be said that its a very curious thing, owing to what RyanM write in his, admittedly insightful review, with which I agree, with two exceptions: II love this movie. I saw it in the cinema, and I return to it pretty often. However, it should be said that its a very curious thing, owing to what RyanM write in his, admittedly insightful review, with which I agree, with two exceptions: I think Jackman is very good here, and I consider the fact that the film is a bunch of allegories, heavily metaphorical, and that the plot is not explicitly stated (one could even say that the drawing of the lines to the dots that this movie presents is left to the reader) a positive thing. Weisz is, as always, stunning, though I'm heavily biased here. The music is wonderful, and the soundtrack is one of my favourite ones.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

MelcherOct 9, 2011

Easily one of the best films I've ever seen on so many levels. Visually alone it is incredible, but when you add in the story, themes, direction and character portrayal it just becomes magic. Aronofsky captures something incredible in hisEasily one of the best films I've ever seen on so many levels. Visually alone it is incredible, but when you add in the story, themes, direction and character portrayal it just becomes magic. Aronofsky captures something incredible in his portrayal of 3 parallel story-lines about life, death, and love. It is a deep film and can be interpreted in many ways and is a treat to watch every time.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

Zlatan91Feb 27, 2011

Fantastic movie,simplified stories,great characterization,i literally can feel Jacks pain...beautiful movie,it just motivate for deeper thinking and trying to understand this life that we all live...

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

stu_collierMar 14, 2011

This in up in my list of favorites one of the best films i have seen. It really explored life,death and love and something in-between. This film will leave you thinking for sure well worth watching.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

SkulbSep 25, 2014

Sometimes being intelligent is a problem, which Aronovsky found out when he released The Fountain. Because roughly half of all human beings are completely incapable of noticing allegory, or any other complex language activities for thatSometimes being intelligent is a problem, which Aronovsky found out when he released The Fountain. Because roughly half of all human beings are completely incapable of noticing allegory, or any other complex language activities for that matter, the movie was criticized up one side and down the other by an army of nincompoops. But they can be safely ignored as usual.

The Fountain is presented as three separate alternating stories, with Hugh Jackman leading all three of them, and Rachel Weiss with him in two of them. The first is presumably in the present, where Jackman is a biologist who is trying to save his dying wife by experimenting on monkeys. The second is set in the 1500s, with Jackman as a conquistador looking for immortality on behalf of the Spanish queen, and this is actually the book Rachel Weiss`character is writing, a detail many people seem to have missed. And the third is a sort of astral allegory of life and death, and one of the weirdest damn things I`ve seen in a while. But really, all three are the same story, dealing with the same topic from three different angles. The second aspect of this triple allegory is that it is not just multiple angles on the subject of life and death but also represents different levels of reality. Because Weiss` fiction (The conquistador part.) is obviously less real than the present day narrative, the implication is that the astral part of the movie is more real than it. Or in other words that spiritual and conceptual reality is superior to physical reality, which again is superior to fiction. Read some Plato and then watch The Fountain again and you`ll understand this part of it.
The result is a tad confusing at first, like time distortions and multiple levels of reality tend to be in movies. But a second viewing cleared most of it up for me.

The movie is otherwise wonderfully cast and directed, visually distinct and has some of the best music I`ve heard in any move. For much of the movie I was convinced that it had to have been made by Current 93 or perhaps Michael Cashmore, but as it turns out the man responsible is Clint Mansell, one time singer in pop Will Eat Itself and collaborator with Trent Reznor. All the complaining about this movie does for me is make me lose faith in humanity, or at least the intelligence of large portions of it. God forbid anyone should try and tackle a difficult subject in a movie, or to be so rude as to do it in a challenging way! Now where`s my twelfth Transformers movie in five years????… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

2hip2beahipsterSep 29, 2011

Ambitious and beautiful. That's all I can say. How one man love turns into his hatred towards death and search for immortality, and how once immortality is finally reached, man will long to die, and be with the one sent him off for the questAmbitious and beautiful. That's all I can say. How one man love turns into his hatred towards death and search for immortality, and how once immortality is finally reached, man will long to die, and be with the one sent him off for the quest of immortality in the first place. Aronofsky shows great skill and ingenious by writing up this script. Also, the cinematography is stunning and extremely well done even 5 years after the movie was filmed. Underrated and overly criticized. I think the ambitions of the movie are what made the critics expect something more, but what else they were expecting? Beats me. Great flick.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

SwatiOct 5, 2013

I was so immersed and solemn throughout that it felt an hour longer than it really was. The subject matter concerned with the value of life and immortality. Three stories run in parallel and it takes real concentration and interest toI was so immersed and solemn throughout that it felt an hour longer than it really was. The subject matter concerned with the value of life and immortality. Three stories run in parallel and it takes real concentration and interest to understand what's going on. That may sound like it's hard to follow, but it isn't true. The first time I watched it like the teenager that I was. The second time I was twenty-five, and really in a position to appreciate the scope and complexity of the tale being told. The movie has divided critics and the audience into two factions, and some hate the movie for that alone. But I'm telling you, it takes multiple viewings for the message to sink in. Not because the director botched the job, but because he trusted his audience to arrive at the conclusion by themselves, without any help. And that, in my opinion, is how I'd rather a story would be told. It isn't often attempted because it's risky and who would want to do that when millions of dollars are at stake. This feat has made me respect Aronofsky more. The fact that the score is literally the best I have ever heard plays no small part in my conviction that this movie is one of the greatest movies ever made. When I read people spewing filth all over this film, I'm reaffirmed in my belief that true greatness is hard to fathom. It takes patience, an eye for detail, good intention, open mindedness and a warm heart.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

Penelope1970atxDec 13, 2013

Just watched The Fountain and I loved the romantic part, mostly because I long for love like that. Anyway, I came to my own interpretation before reading other reviews and to make it short: The scientist struggled with immortality, espJust watched The Fountain and I loved the romantic part, mostly because I long for love like that. Anyway, I came to my own interpretation before reading other reviews and to make it short: The scientist struggled with immortality, esp after his love died. But through finishing the story I think he realized, by tapping into his spiritual side, that even though our physical bodies are not immortal, we all have immortality in the way of our spirits. Planting the tree on her grave was a symbolic gesture, and a way to express his new realization in his human, physical, though ego driven, self.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

bodhi_zFeb 11, 2014

This film is about dealing with the loss of someone you deeply love. Denying death, then finally accepting it. It is a lyric poem of fantastic and beautiful images; an atypical, yet exceptional film. I found it one of the most beautiful,This film is about dealing with the loss of someone you deeply love. Denying death, then finally accepting it. It is a lyric poem of fantastic and beautiful images; an atypical, yet exceptional film. I found it one of the most beautiful, touching, artistic movies I’ve seen in a long time. Metaphorical images are used frequently, and metaphorical story lines. I know many who are confused by this movie. I don’t know why; I experienced it as simple and straightforward. Perhaps it is because the theme is one that is intimately familiar to me and that is why it was immediately recognizable. I hope, through time, this film will receive the recognition it deserves.
Finish it.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

Anwar-MkayedJan 2, 2015

Can be interpreted on many levels, or enjoyed superficially as just a 'film'. However, for many who watched it, the depth of it can not be felt immediately but rather reflect upon as one might do after a mystical dream, and even enjoy it evenCan be interpreted on many levels, or enjoyed superficially as just a 'film'. However, for many who watched it, the depth of it can not be felt immediately but rather reflect upon as one might do after a mystical dream, and even enjoy it even after The End.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

annbdJun 22, 2018

Completely brilliant and beautiful, The Fountain allowed us to look at the depths of the innermost, intimate and emotional side of our soul in terms of the love and loss of our closest person in this world. With the help of Clint Mansell'sCompletely brilliant and beautiful, The Fountain allowed us to look at the depths of the innermost, intimate and emotional side of our soul in terms of the love and loss of our closest person in this world. With the help of Clint Mansell's touching music, the observer sink into the well directed story and is 'bewitched'. Captivate, fascinating and personal.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

EnanAug 23, 2010

Living forever would be hell. Eternity claws at the heart of Aronofsky's temporally transcendent hero, Thomas. Hugh Jackman plays Thomas, but the character embodies director/writer Aronofsky's complex and insightful interpretation of whatLiving forever would be hell. Eternity claws at the heart of Aronofsky's temporally transcendent hero, Thomas. Hugh Jackman plays Thomas, but the character embodies director/writer Aronofsky's complex and insightful interpretation of what immortality means. Beyond humanity conquering time, this film tackles how ideas, and even feelings, can be inherently timeless. The Fountain courageously examines what keeps us here and why we eventually need to go.

Aronofsky's ability as a director has been hailed with both Pi and Requiem for a Dream. The Fountain is unlike anything he has done before. He provokes audiences intellectually, spiritually and viscerally, but this time, with extra concern for plot and character dynamics. Like Fellini, putting his wife in his films compels a richer and more passionate creation. Weisz proves more enchanting in this sci-fi spirit quest than any other film to date. Instead of isolation and dependence, Aronofsky focuses on interconnectivity. A responsibility to his wife, new born, and devoted fans gives birth to a film that aspires to be something timeless itself. Aronofsky, more than anything, demonstrates how much he expects of himself.

Moving within the millennia spanning the films narrative are the souls of Thomas and Izzi. They are tied to each other and the tree of life. Uniquely positioned as the tie that binds them to the tree is love. In every period, Thomas scrambles to save Izzi in some way. Thomas exasperatingly challenges the life threatening circumstances Izzi faces. Battling Mayan warlords, cancerous tumors or traveling to Xibalba(The Place of Fear) are dwarfed by the life purpose Izzi instills in him. The limitations of love and devotion are reluctantly acknowledged, as Thomas becomes a slave to hope and memory.

The very essence of existence comes into play as fantasy is given as much legitimacy in the film as reality. The scenes from the Mayan period are melded together with the fiction Izzi is writing in present day. The line between truth and fiction disintegrates as the three stories continually intertwine. The motives of the characters are similar in each, but it takes the fantasy to provoke their destinies. Thomas's ultimate fate and acceptance of reality can only happen in surreal settings where anything is possible.

The Fountain delves into the ineffable headfirst. Infinite possibility lies at the heart of life and death. One answer is as valid or invalid as the next without a map key. The closest we come to understanding it all is when determining what it isn't. Aronofsky posits the question as the answer stylishly, uniquely and profoundly.… Expand

10 of 12 users found this helpful102

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10

Tejas25Jan 6, 2011

There are no words to express what i felt after watching The Fountain, this movie is so beautiful in its own way it explores the man's greed for life and immortality. Excellently directed and perfectly acted movie. Aronofsky's a brilliantThere are no words to express what i felt after watching The Fountain, this movie is so beautiful in its own way it explores the man's greed for life and immortality. Excellently directed and perfectly acted movie. Aronofsky's a brilliant filmmaker Rachel Weisz is good Hugh Jackman gives a Bravura a career defining performance you can feel the pain of Jackman's Character :( . You should'nt miss this. Beautiful just Beautiful!!!… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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10

SamN.Mar 8, 2008

Like this year's Sunshine, The Fountain is a near perfect collaboration of performances, visuals, plot, and music. I'm surprised by some of the comments on here; it's not a very hard film to get. Jackman's performance is Like this year's Sunshine, The Fountain is a near perfect collaboration of performances, visuals, plot, and music. I'm surprised by some of the comments on here; it's not a very hard film to get. Jackman's performance is severely underappreciated, and easily deserved an Oscar nomination. The most underrated movie of 2006.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful

10

ChadL.Jan 3, 2007

While I can certainly say that for me, this is one of the best films I've seen this year, movies of this profundity and caliber really deserve consideration at the level of what movies I have *ever* seen that have been this good. While While I can certainly say that for me, this is one of the best films I've seen this year, movies of this profundity and caliber really deserve consideration at the level of what movies I have *ever* seen that have been this good. While I have certainly spent a good deal of time deconstructing the film (themes, symbols, etc) I think thie real impact of The Fountain is as an experience, approached with the heart rather than the mind. But I don't mean to belittle the careful way in which Aranofsky has put this film together- its magnificence is abundant in all aspects of this film. Like other reviewers, I find it pretty shocking that so many people are panning this movie. I've read a number of reviews where it is obvious that the reviewer missed the whole point of the movie (not that it is all that complex), or took a too literal approach to the 3-part story line; I even felt that some wanted to trash the film in an attempt to be hip, by ragging on a hip new director coming into his own (transcendental meta-hipness?). And that's too bad, as they really missed taking in a marvelous movie.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

10

RonS.Mar 2, 2007

It takes a special kind of person to enjoy this very special movie, I can understand pepole who didnt connect to it's stand on love and death, and I can see why pepole are saying Aronofsky over-reached, but it is so beautiful and It takes a special kind of person to enjoy this very special movie, I can understand pepole who didnt connect to it's stand on love and death, and I can see why pepole are saying Aronofsky over-reached, but it is so beautiful and touching, the actors fill you up with a warming sensation, flawless work of cinematic art, a true masterpiece.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

10

ThomasK.Mar 17, 2008

For those of you who cast aside this work of art as nothing more than a pretentious 'art flick', you are sadly mistaken. It is personal to the core. Through the tellings of the three personae of past, future, and present, this For those of you who cast aside this work of art as nothing more than a pretentious 'art flick', you are sadly mistaken. It is personal to the core. Through the tellings of the three personae of past, future, and present, this movie brings to life the core essence of humanity and life itself. The pretentious ones are those who begrudge this film for the fact that what may seem a simple axiom to them was elaborated over the course of a 90-some odd minutes. The impact of this movie is not what could be summarized of this movie in a few words, but rather the journey the protagonists take throughout the course of it, as well as the visually stunning way the movie was brought together from end-to-beginning. This movie is only frustrating for those who become impatient watching water boil. For others, it expresses a true experience into the indomitable cycle of life. Those who say otherwise are the pretentious ones.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

10

JesseS.Apr 10, 2008

Awesome. One of those movies you can watch over & over again, or, like the director says, solve differently a la rubik's cubism.

2 of 3 users found this helpful

10

pgSep 10, 2008

It is a little like trying to explain why you like your favorite food. This happens to be the kind of film that is my "favorite food." I don't understand the viciously hostile reviews by some critics of this movie other than to suspect It is a little like trying to explain why you like your favorite food. This happens to be the kind of film that is my "favorite food." I don't understand the viciously hostile reviews by some critics of this movie other than to suspect that some folks haven't gotten over the whole "Mom made me eat my vegetables" thing. Hey, I used to hate onions and now I love them. I have watched this film many times and I love it! The movie is not hard to understand unless you say so (because it can be understood however you want to relate to it). It is not trivial or contrived unless you say so (if you think you're having a bad day - you probably are). It is definately not as good as Picasso painting a portrait of Shakespeare while humming a Beatles tune, but then again...that never happened anyways (that I know of). Best served with wine and chocolate, and a loved one (preferably warm, not a plant, and still in this current plane of existence) There -- that's a sufficiently symbol-laden, mini-review in keeping with this movie's style. … Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

10

AlexandraJun 10, 2009

The fact that this movie got such dismal reviews is a testament to how emotionally and intellectually dead the general populace is. This movie doesn't follow the conventional formula that is palatable to the average viewer. History has The fact that this movie got such dismal reviews is a testament to how emotionally and intellectually dead the general populace is. This movie doesn't follow the conventional formula that is palatable to the average viewer. History has demonstrated time and time again that masterpieces are rarely understood and appreciated at the time of their debut. The Fountain is one of those masterpieces. Only those viewers who are willing to take the poetic beauty of this film on its own merits will understand this movie's evocative emotional power. Aronofsky has created something rich and sensuous; the spectacular visuals, the incredible score, and the complex story overwhelmed me to such a degree that I sometimes had to remind myself to breathe. I can't get this movie out of my head, and that is a beautiful thing.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

9

WillR.Nov 30, 2006

A gorgeous movie; atypical Hollywood narrative. Has to be viewed more as a parable or a visual poem, though the acting is phenomenal (Jackman should win best actor for this). Alludes to Solaris, 2001, Herzog, Buddhist philosophy, various A gorgeous movie; atypical Hollywood narrative. Has to be viewed more as a parable or a visual poem, though the acting is phenomenal (Jackman should win best actor for this). Alludes to Solaris, 2001, Herzog, Buddhist philosophy, various other religious icons and themes. Not an easy movie, but deserves much more praise than it has gotten.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

9

JessicaG.Dec 4, 2006

2 of 3 users found this helpful

8

AnonymousHMay 29, 2007

Jimmy stop giving 10's to movies just because they are original. If you really like a movie give it a 9, especially if you admit there is argument for flaws. It's people like you that rate movies 10's or 0's that give Jimmy stop giving 10's to movies just because they are original. If you really like a movie give it a 9, especially if you admit there is argument for flaws. It's people like you that rate movies 10's or 0's that give objective criticism a bad name. The movie is good and original. Not perfect. Check it out.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

2

seancriswellApr 5, 2013

The tree of life and the fountain of youth. The possibilities for themes and visuals are endless. Unfortunately Aronofsky chooses to bog us down in a melodrama with two characters that he never gives us a chance to connect with. This film isThe tree of life and the fountain of youth. The possibilities for themes and visuals are endless. Unfortunately Aronofsky chooses to bog us down in a melodrama with two characters that he never gives us a chance to connect with. This film is trying very hard to be complex but the story arc is simple. A doctor is trying to save his dying wife. She knows what he will not accept. The rest is surreal visuals revolving around the afterlife.

All of this would be a great idea if there were characters involved that I cared about. My second issue with the Fountain is the visuals. For a film that is relying heavily on visuals they are pretty bland here. If there is a bright spot I think it is Jackman's performance. I don't think I have ever seen him convey emotion in such a believable way. The Fountain had some promise but in the end never delivers.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

Carol_reviewsApr 22, 2019

Like Alejandro Jodorowsky before him the Fountain balances kitsch and art. Not everyone will be pleased. But those who love cinema should be excited for this is Aronofsky tapping in to the things that make cinema great.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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5

IanPMay 31, 2007

Unquestionably a bad film, despite its visual splendor. Not bad in a way you can sink your teeth into, bad for its incredibly vague, cloyingly sentimental, new agey, breathtakingly empty, pseudo-philosophical jibber jabber. Bad in a way that Unquestionably a bad film, despite its visual splendor. Not bad in a way you can sink your teeth into, bad for its incredibly vague, cloyingly sentimental, new agey, breathtakingly empty, pseudo-philosophical jibber jabber. Bad in a way that makes me suspect that the people who made it don't really know the difference between a powerful statement about life and death (however ambiguous: that is NOT the issue here) and a conglomeration of impressive images hung together on the feeblest and most pretentious of threads. Which would make this a horrof film, of sorts, but emblematic of an age that will doubtless be remembered above all for its sheer vacuity.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful

0

DianeR.Feb 13, 2007

This film poses as a education on alternative faith while borrowing fact from the Original. The Tree of Life is Biblical, but here it seems like it's alternative medicine. In dealing with the fact people physically die and our This film poses as a education on alternative faith while borrowing fact from the Original. The Tree of Life is Biblical, but here it seems like it's alternative medicine. In dealing with the fact people physically die and our powerlessness to stop it will not be solved by diverting our attention to think powerful thoughts. The connection between the couple seemed beautiful, but time wasted on trying to be her savior instead of savouring their last momments was irritating and egocentric. In the end, it seemed like mind-trip escapism was the only thing left to do to cope with the loss. How sad.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful

1

howellg.Nov 22, 2006

A visually interesting film cannont compensate for inane dialogue. The level of writng seems appropriate for a high school project. A major waste of time.

1 of 3 users found this helpful

0

MikeC.Dec 8, 2006

A turgid, pretentious, pseudo philosophic mess. Nothing here is credible, nor moving or interesting. Dialogues are often ridiculously laughable. Simply because they won't be able to understand the movie, or because they will be A turgid, pretentious, pseudo philosophic mess. Nothing here is credible, nor moving or interesting. Dialogues are often ridiculously laughable. Simply because they won't be able to understand the movie, or because they will be fascinated by the "visuals", some "intellectuals" will say it's brilliant or fantastic. It's completely shallow and poorly written. The "oeuvre d'art" of a fart.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful

3

UnImpressedAug 29, 2009

I'm loving the fact that there are so many reviews on here claiming to understand this film and dogging those who didn't. Interestingly enough, I don't think I read two of those reviews that agreed on what the film was about, I'm loving the fact that there are so many reviews on here claiming to understand this film and dogging those who didn't. Interestingly enough, I don't think I read two of those reviews that agreed on what the film was about, or very many that attempted to explain it at all. I understand that many of those people and others will say that is the beauty of the film, that it can mean so many things to so many different people. But when something 'can' mean so many things to so many people, then it ultimately means nothing, doesn't it? I'm an open minded individual and watched this film, first of all thinking it was going to be something else, but then to read how long it was and ask myself "It was ONLY 96 minutes long?" I don't know, I'm sure many people could have a hayday with my review, but when a film feels an hour longer than it actually is, and when it ultimately , in my humble opinion, means nothing, then it is not a masterpiece, but a garbled mess of something that can't be explained. But of course, I know I have a more analytical than creative mind, so take it for what you will.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful

2

RyanMJun 2, 2007

Darren Aronofsky

1 of 5 users found this helpful

0

killdarrenMay 8, 2009

Darren Aronofsky...a director who holds his audience or anyone for that matter, at absolute contempt. His films do NOTHING but divide critics and audiences and this pretentious hack is laughing all the way to the bank. Enjoy!

1 of 5 users found this helpful

0

LondonTrueloveNov 8, 2010

I thought The New World with Colin Farrell was the worst movie I would ever see in my life....then I saw this heap of steaming feces. If I could give it a negative score I would.

2 of 11 users found this helpful29

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0

vibor123Feb 16, 2011

Like all Arofonsky movies, this is **** up too, but is very bad way. It is very boring, confusing and badly directed, story is bleak and too deep for most people. I am not suprised that this movie was box office flop..

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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2

WilliamB.Jun 27, 2007

It was a complete mess, not engaging at all, and there was no chemistry between Jackman and Weisz.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

9

JacobC.Jan 3, 2007

I can understand the hesitance from some people about liking this film or not. Certainly it is not for the casual film goer. Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain requires the viewer to place themselves outside of the norm and rethink the way I can understand the hesitance from some people about liking this film or not. Certainly it is not for the casual film goer. Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain requires the viewer to place themselves outside of the norm and rethink the way films are made and viewed. It may seem a difficult task for some, but with the best acting Hugh Jackman has ever shown, flawless editing and a beautiful script, the pay-off is well worth the extra effort. With his ever-changing style and artistic vision, Aronofsky has proven his role as a staple in film history.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

0

ScottGMar 1, 2008

One of the worst movies in the history of bad moviemaking. No genuine important ideas were examined, no sense was made of a senseless storyline, and it was just plain silly.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

4

WesJ.Dec 5, 2006

Visually appealing but the muddled plot kept me from enjoying it. Perhaps if I had seen it in a better theater I would have enjoyed it more.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

3

leirisJan 6, 2007

You have got to be kidding me. Aronofsky seems to be trying to prove something with this one, but it falls flat on its face. But you've got to give him credit for trying something different...at least he is not just pumping out some You have got to be kidding me. Aronofsky seems to be trying to prove something with this one, but it falls flat on its face. But you've got to give him credit for trying something different...at least he is not just pumping out some generic tripe like most young directors.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

4

TJW.Feb 12, 2007

Ah, Mr. Aronofsky...where did you go wrong? The director of two of the best films of the last ten years, Pi: Faith In Chaos and Requiem For A Dream, released his latest, the $80 million dollar sci-fi epic The Fountain this week, and while it Ah, Mr. Aronofsky...where did you go wrong? The director of two of the best films of the last ten years, Pi: Faith In Chaos and Requiem For A Dream, released his latest, the $80 million dollar sci-fi epic The Fountain this week, and while it starts off pretty well, it finishes up by proposing 500 different questions and not answering ANY of them. The movie tells three different stories; of Tomas, a 16th century conquistador searching for the tree of life; Tom Creo, a man desperately searching for a cure to his wife's brain tumor before she dies; and Tommy, a 26th century astronaut who is trying to do...something. The movie starts off pretty well, as it focuses mainly on the story of Tom. As he spends all his time searching for a cure, trying to extend his wife's life, he doesn't realize that he is wasting all the time that he does have with her, and is going to regret it in the end. I really liked this story (it was one of the few things I did like in this movie) and I think, had he not tried to do so much and instead JUST focused on this story, he could have had a great modern romance story on his hands. Unfortunately, he decides to stick two other stories in; this is where the movie completely fails. No one I know who's seen this really understood the point of either of these stories, and, sadly, there are going to be plenty of people who saw this movie who claim that you aren't supposed to understand everything, that's how it's supposed to be; don't believe them. This is just a copout because no one wants to admit that this great director has made a bad film. The acting here is pretty good. Rachel Weisz, who won an Oscar last year for The Constant Gardener, is great as Tom's wife, who is eternally optimistic about her death, although she cannot convince her husband of the same. Ellen Burstyn is also good as the fellow doctor of Tom, trying to convince him that he needs to embrace the time his wife does have instead of trying to create more. Hugh Jackman, however, is a different story; as Tom, the obsessed doctor trying to save his wife, he is pretty good, but when he switches to Tomas or Tommy, he makes some facial expressions that, although they are meant to be deep and moving, end up being almost laughable. The script is a completely muddled mess; Aronofsky tries to toss in deep theological question after deep theological question, but the script just ends up just coming off incredibly pretentious with lots of complex babble. One thing, however, almost completely redeems this film; the cinematography. Included are lots of Aronofsky's trademark EXTREME close-ups, which gives a lot of the scenes more life. You also see some amazing shots where the camera starts upside down, seemingly under the ground, and as a vehicle speeds over it, it completely flips to a normal shot; VERY cool. And the 26th century story, while it never makes sense, and is never explained what is going on, is absolutely beautiful; you'll stare at awe at some of the effects here. In the end, however, The Fountain is a complete disaster; had Aronofsky not attempt to tell the most epic story ever, he may have had a good film on his hands. As it stands, however, it is nothing more than a good-looking film with a completely ridiculous story.… Expand

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0

MonicaSFJun 28, 2007

This was the worst film I've seen in long time. Can't believe two of my fav. actors (Jackman & Weisz) and the director of Pi & Requiem for a Dream (I absolutely loved both movies) could make such a BORING film! I hate MTV and fast This was the worst film I've seen in long time. Can't believe two of my fav. actors (Jackman & Weisz) and the director of Pi & Requiem for a Dream (I absolutely loved both movies) could make such a BORING film! I hate MTV and fast paced modern visuals, but this movie sucks big time!!!! The story set in the future is meant to be a space ship!? Give me a break! And I'm the sort of person that never leaves a movie theatre or stops reading a book half way through. I'm so upset for the time wasted on this.... grrr.… Expand

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2

nwbroncoJul 21, 2007

The only reason that I did not vote zero was the cg effects. E for effort. Aside from that, what do you get when you mix a little bit of opium, death fantasies, astronomy, eastern religion and no hope?? Anyone? You get 96 minutes of your The only reason that I did not vote zero was the cg effects. E for effort. Aside from that, what do you get when you mix a little bit of opium, death fantasies, astronomy, eastern religion and no hope?? Anyone? You get 96 minutes of your precious life ROBBED from you! Don't bother. Anyone with Judeo-Christian beliefs may get irritated at the ending. That is all.… Expand

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0

JoeNov 26, 2006

Sure, The Fountain has some great visual scenes and is filled with themes and zen principles. But for me it was not movie, there was no plot or reasoning for any actions that take place. While you may compare this to 2001: A Space Odyssey, Sure, The Fountain has some great visual scenes and is filled with themes and zen principles. But for me it was not movie, there was no plot or reasoning for any actions that take place. While you may compare this to 2001: A Space Odyssey, don't. 2001 was a great movie that could be watched by anyone and not just for it themes or beliefs. This is probably why The Fountain currently scores as a 50 and "2001" scores at an 86 on Metacritic. Whats even worse is that I wasn't able to fall asleep with all the screaming and choppy scenes that kept waking me up. Personally, if this wins an Oscar, I'll feel like stabbing the closest person. Do not go to see this if you want to see a good movie.… Expand

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4

MikeKNov 30, 2006

While the imagery is admittedly impressive at times, it simply cannot carry the weight of an overly ambitious, DRAGGING plotline. The movie transitions are abrupt, and the slow points truly crawl...to the point where you want to roll your While the imagery is admittedly impressive at times, it simply cannot carry the weight of an overly ambitious, DRAGGING plotline. The movie transitions are abrupt, and the slow points truly crawl...to the point where you want to roll your eyes. Jackman does a great job, although for me Weisz was over dramatic and fake.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

0

AlexA.Feb 11, 2007

Who are the retarded dweebs who are impressed by this picture? Rarely have I seen such a laughable, adolescent, poorly wrtten, style over substance ego-trip. EXCRUCIATING.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

0

AnnR.Jun 29, 2007

I'm usually intrigued by time travel movies, which is why I purchased this DVD, but The Fountain was simply awful. I think the producer was on drugs, it just didn't make any sense. Worse 20 bucks ever spent!

0 of 2 users found this helpful

2

AnonymousSeattleJun 3, 2007

Although visually stunning and stylistically beautiful, this was a terrible film. It was the kind of movie that "looks really good" and then has no plot, cheesy and insincere feeling characters, and goes absolutely nowhere. And I'm not Although visually stunning and stylistically beautiful, this was a terrible film. It was the kind of movie that "looks really good" and then has no plot, cheesy and insincere feeling characters, and goes absolutely nowhere. And I'm not one to usually need a lot of plot or action to be enthralled. This was deeply disappointing- it seemed more like an art project than a film.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

0

RyanD.Sep 8, 2007

This film is like a cheerleader. Very pretty, but very dumb.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

3

RichardK.May 28, 2008

Yes, it may be visually intriguing, but with a main character that shows no true depth or connection to anything around him, I found this movie equally difficult to connect to.

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0

MarkMNov 23, 2006

The 10

0 of 3 users found this helpful

0

JenniferNov 25, 2006

This movie is like the naive romantic fantasy of a precocious and pretentious11-year-old girl who is writing about topics that she hasn't actually experienced. It may be the most pointless movie I've ever seen. Insulting to This movie is like the naive romantic fantasy of a precocious and pretentious11-year-old girl who is writing about topics that she hasn't actually experienced. It may be the most pointless movie I've ever seen. Insulting to everyone, especially the great actors who signed on for this silliness.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

3

MikeDec 10, 2006

I loved the music from this movie! Great job. The acting by Hugh Jackman is amazing! What an amazing actor! this guy gets better and better the more movies he play in! But here's the bad part, the Director failed at putting it all I loved the music from this movie! Great job. The acting by Hugh Jackman is amazing! What an amazing actor! this guy gets better and better the more movies he play in! But here's the bad part, the Director failed at putting it all together. Kind of like Lynch had so many failures till Mulholland Drive. I think it is the same with this movie. The director, just didnt deliver what he wanted, I was waiting for the movie to get more deep, but it didn't happen.… Expand

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4

KeithJNov 3, 2007

I think this movie might be better on a second viewing. I enjoy complex movies (my recent favorite is Pan's Labyrinth, for example); however, as I watched The Fountain, I really had little idea what was "real" (in the movie's I think this movie might be better on a second viewing. I enjoy complex movies (my recent favorite is Pan's Labyrinth, for example); however, as I watched The Fountain, I really had little idea what was "real" (in the movie's logic) and what wasn't. There are three storylines. There is a bizarre and fantastic one set in the past; then, we are transported to a bizarre and fantastic one in (I guess?) the distant future; then, we segue to a relatively normal one in approximately the present day. In retrospect, I think the present and future realities were "real", and the one set in the past was fiction/metaphor. However, as you go through the movie, if nobody tells you that, you have no firm ground to stand on; you spend your time trying to decipher the basics, not appreciating whatever truths it is trying to convey. I am tempted to rent the movie and watch it again, because I think I'd enjoy it more knowing what I know now. However, I feel compelled to give it a fairly low mark anyway, because I think it's a flaw of the movie that the viewer has to waste so much mental energy on unimportant things (which part is "real") that it takes away from the rest.… Expand

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5

MarkF.May 15, 2007

First off, my rating is VERY generous. Even if Aranofsky is considered a visionary, this is one of the darkest, most downbeat, isimplistic, yet incoherent messes of a "film" I've seen recently. I've heard from several college age First off, my rating is VERY generous. Even if Aranofsky is considered a visionary, this is one of the darkest, most downbeat, isimplistic, yet incoherent messes of a "film" I've seen recently. I've heard from several college age students that this is this generation's "2001". Well, if this is true, that's even more pathetic than this film is. I will admit that I only give Aronofsky's previous films a 6, so maybe you can go ahead and make fun of me now, but I've never clipped for any money or pretended that I had anything to share with you except for common sense.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

3

PunkR.Nov 27, 2006

I went for the visuals and I was not impressed. The story line is thin and the dialog sappy. Everyone here giving the film a 10 must have seen a different movie or they are PR plants. Honestly not worth seeing.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

1

BenJ.Nov 29, 2006

This movie is terrible. There is three stories, but only one makes sense, and all are very depressing. The only redeemable quality is Hugh Jackman, but even he can't save a movie this bad.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

3

RobertDec 24, 2006

A pretentious mess of a movie. Every line is either whispered or screamed to add nonexistent weight to an already sloppy script. Basic narrative techniques are eschewed for the sake or "artiness," but without them, the film becomes a A pretentious mess of a movie. Every line is either whispered or screamed to add nonexistent weight to an already sloppy script. Basic narrative techniques are eschewed for the sake or "artiness," but without them, the film becomes a mishmash of unclear scenarios and one dimensional characters Although some scenes were visually impressive, the flatness of the characters and the one note performances of the leads left me cold. .Jackman cries or acts bitter for the entire film, and Weisz basically stands around and smiles. How can I care about the characters when they have zero personality and development? Basically, I thought this movie had a rather simple idea (death is only the beginning, the circle of life, etc.) that reeked with self-importance, making the concept seem more insightful than it actually was. None of the questions Aronofsky poses are answered, which, instead of leaving room for the viewer to interpret things, is simply sloppy film making. The viewer shouldn't be spoon fed all the answers for a film, but the director, when dealing with weighty concepts like life and death, should provide more than just a cache of flashy images with little to no context. Giving the audience no explanation of the who, what, where, when, and why of a scene and forcing them to sort out the details is plain irresponsible. This is a movie designed for the self-congratulatory art house crowd. Those who like it feel "smart" and those who don't are made to feel "stupid" or inferior in some sort of way. I've never seen a film so convinced of its own importance. Instead of fretting over striking angles and nifty camera tricks, Aronofsky should have actually directed his actors or added some coherence to his screenplay. This was an overly ambitious movie that was hurt by its own ambition.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

1

RoryP.Dec 29, 2007

I agree with Ryan D. a frustrating experience to watch. To anyone who is contemplating seeing this film, please heed the following advice - With respect to all things artistic and lacking bullsh*t, do not watch this film, it would be a I agree with Ryan D. a frustrating experience to watch. To anyone who is contemplating seeing this film, please heed the following advice - With respect to all things artistic and lacking bullsh*t, do not watch this film, it would be a laborious waste of your valuable time. Trust me on this, such a critique is not down to the stroppy interpretation of one mere mortal long since out of college, this is not about me making a point for the sake of coming across as superior or smart-every ounce of sanity in my body tells me It is a bad film: Lending any connotations of pretension to The Fountain would be doing it a favour-Its got nothing to say about life that couldn't be said in five minutes in the same sloppy format-its got nothing to say about life that hasn't been said better in other vastly superior films (i don't know, badlands or the thin red line by Terrence Malick for example). To anyone who likes this film, i apologize for saying what i am about to say because i am sure you are a intelligent sensitive and loving person who has done nothing malicious enough to deserve such a harsh appraisal of your sense of self, but seriously, YOU ARE DELUDED.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

4

imilhoferDec 26, 2013

This film is too clever for its own good, and came across forced and disjointed. In all honesty, I had no idea what was happening for the majority of this corny film, and it wasn't a pleasant lack of understanding (Mulholland Drive), but aThis film is too clever for its own good, and came across forced and disjointed. In all honesty, I had no idea what was happening for the majority of this corny film, and it wasn't a pleasant lack of understanding (Mulholland Drive), but a lack of understanding that led me to question whether watching it was a good use of my time or not. Burstyn offered some class, and Aronofksy is blatantly talented, but here he pushed it too far, and produced a contrived hour and a half of nonsense, worsened by Rachel Weisz's sheer dullness.… Expand

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8

bfoore90Nov 14, 2020

t's a film seemingly about many things from death to love to acceptance, the point of The Fountain is seemingly that it's about many of life's questions. Like most of Aronofsky's filmography, I found the film to be a poignant, compelling andt's a film seemingly about many things from death to love to acceptance, the point of The Fountain is seemingly that it's about many of life's questions. Like most of Aronofsky's filmography, I found the film to be a poignant, compelling and creative tale about a man's obsession with death and saving his wife from it. Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz are incredible in this and the visual effects and Clint Mansell's score are extremely effective in this tale about a man who doesn't want to lose the love of his life. Also, Clint Mansell's score for Mass Effect 3 was phenomenal.… Expand

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8

amirsJan 20, 2014

انسان و مساله‌ی بودن یا نبودن

مرگ مهم‌ترین دغدغه‌ی ذهنی بشر از گذشته‌های دور تا به امروز به حساب می‌آید و همیشه با ترسی عظیم هم‌راه بوده. انسان از زمانی که موجودی مرگ‌آگاه شد همیشه به دنبال رهایی از چنگال این شبح عظیم بوده که در لحظهانسان و مساله‌ی بودن یا نبودن

مرگ مهم‌ترین دغدغه‌ی ذهنی بشر از گذشته‌های دور تا به امروز به حساب می‌آید و همیشه با ترسی عظیم هم‌راه بوده. انسان از زمانی که موجودی مرگ‌آگاه شد همیشه به دنبال رهایی از چنگال این شبح عظیم بوده که در لحظه لحظه‌ی زندگی هم‌راه اوست و همین هم‌راهی همیشگی انسان را در تعلیقی ابدی نگاه می‌دارد. چیزی که این قدر به ما نزدیک است چرا باید موجب هراسمان شود چرا به آن عادت نمی‌کنیم؟ دلیلش ناشناخته بودن مرگ است. از بعدش هیچ نمی‌دانیم همین ما را می‌ترساند.
البته وقتی درباره‌ی مرگ حرف می‌زنیم باید این را در نظر گرفت که خود مرگ مد نظر است یا پیامدهای آن (منظورم از پیامد؛ مواجه شدن‌مان با مرگ دیگران، خاصه عزیزان‌مان است).
مرگ و زندگی ‍‍پیوسته در کانون آثار برجسته‌ی هنر و ادبیات جهان قرار داشته. شگفتی ندارد اگر نخستین کتابی که از تمدن‌های بزرگ باستانی به دست ما رسیده است، کتاب مردگان مصر و نخستین افسانه، افسانه گیل گمش بابلی باشد که در تلاش و تکاپو برای یافتن گیاه جوانی و زندگی جاودان بود، و کهن‌ترین هراس یا آرزویی که از انسان آن روزگاران شناخته‌ایم، هراس از مرگ و آرزوی نامیرایی باشد.
در طول تاریخ؛ بشر مدام سعی بر آن داشته تا خود را از چنگال مرگ برهاند. گاه با مواجه نشدن با آن تا زمانی که از سایه درآید و رخ نشان دهد، گاه با نفی کردنش و باور به حیات پس از مرگ (بازتولد در اشکال مختلف)، و گاه این اواخر به کمک پیشرفت علم، مرگ را بیماری دانستن و این که هر بیماری درمان دارد به مبارزه با آن رفته. در تمامی این راه‌های مواجهه با مرگ که با یک‌دیگر متفاوت‌اند، یک چیز مشترک وجود دارد و آن هم عدم پذیرش مرگ (آن طور که هست یا حداقل نشان می‌دهد) و میل به جاودانگی است. البته در این بین بوده‌اند کسانی که دانسته‌اند از مرگ گریزی نیست اما از هراسش چرا.
فیلم چشمه ساخته‌ی دارن آرنوفسکی فیلمی است درباره‌ی مواجهه با مرگ (البته من این طور دیدمش) هر چند که شاید به دلیل زمان کوتاه فیلم (برای چنین مساله‌ای) آن بخش پیامدهای مرگ (از دست دادن عزیز) بسیار پررنگ‌تر است.… Expand

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4

SpongeeeDec 8, 2006

Requiem was a classic, The Fountain is not. Bad story, script, sets, drama, music, camera work, even acting. Besides the cool galaxy/star images toward the end, the movie was an overall bore. Maybe Aranofsky took all the praise from Requiem Requiem was a classic, The Fountain is not. Bad story, script, sets, drama, music, camera work, even acting. Besides the cool galaxy/star images toward the end, the movie was an overall bore. Maybe Aranofsky took all the praise from Requiem to the head because he seemed to make this movie with no regard except for the fact that he thinks anything he does has to be good. Half the crew/and 1 actor were hold overs from Requiem...and Huge JACKman...I knew it was too good to be true when I saw the poster, but at least I gave it a shot.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

PhilR.Apr 19, 2008

A truly amazing film like no other. I admire the directors effort, but I feel his one failing was not fleshing out the two main characters and their love for each other. Had he done this the viewers would have been able to identify more with A truly amazing film like no other. I admire the directors effort, but I feel his one failing was not fleshing out the two main characters and their love for each other. Had he done this the viewers would have been able to identify more with the underlying story of love and how it relates to death. Anyhow a movie that need multiple viewings to understand. And one of the most incredible scenes in recent memory. The part where Tomas drinks from the tree of life. Mind blowing imagery and allegory in an unforgettable climax. It is hard to believe the film was shot on such a low budget.… Expand

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8

Andys_ReviewsSep 29, 2012

I have to admit this is the second time I