"Shane Carruth's Upstream Color: A Masterpiece of Visual Storytelling"

Upstream Color is a 2013 film directed by Shane Carruth, known for his previous work on Primer. The film tells the story of two individuals, Kris and Jeff, who are brought together by a shared traumatic experience involving a strange organism. The two soon discover that they have been subjected to mind control and that their lives have been intertwined in unexpected ways. 

The plot of Upstream Color is intricate and multi-layered, exploring themes of identity, love, and the interconnectedness of all things. Carruth masterfully weaves together seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive narrative that engages the viewer from start to finish. The story's coherence is further enhanced by the film's strong performances, particularly from Amy Seimetz and Carruth himself.

The characters in Upstream Color are complex and well-developed, with motivations that are gradually revealed throughout the course of the film. Kris and Jeff are both damaged individuals, struggling to make sense of their experiences and the effect they have had on their lives. The film's exploration of their relationship is both moving and profound, delving into themes of loss, connection, and redemption.

The direction of Upstream Color is remarkable, with Carruth exhibiting a keen eye for visual storytelling. The film's pacing and editing are masterful, with each scene flowing seamlessly into the next. Carruth also employs a distinctive visual style, using color, light, and framing to convey the film's themes in subtle and powerful ways.

The cinematography is stunning, with each shot composed to perfection. The film's use of color and lighting is particularly notable, with Carruth utilizing a muted, earthy palette that lends the film a dreamlike quality. The camera work is also highly effective, capturing both the beauty and horror of the world that Kris and Jeff inhabit.

The soundtrack is haunting and evocative, with a score that perfectly complements the film's ethereal tone. The film's sound design is similarly impressive, with each sound carefully crafted to enhance the overall atmosphere. Fun Fact, our man Carruth wrote the music himself! Is there anything he doesn't;t do when making films?

The central themes of Upstream Color are both philosophical and deeply personal, exploring questions of identity, free will, and the nature of human connection. The film's examination of these themes is subtle and nuanced, inviting the viewer to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives. While some viewers may find the film's ambiguity frustrating, others will appreciate its open-endedness and the way it challenges conventional narrative conventions.

Overall, Upstream Color is a remarkable film that defies easy categorization. Its strengths lie in its coherent plot, well-developed characters, masterful direction, stunning cinematography, haunting soundtrack, and exploration of complex themes. While it may not be to everyone's taste, those willing to engage with its unconventional style and challenging themes will find it to be a deeply rewarding experience. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

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Review: The Endless

The 2017 science-fiction horror film, "The Endless," directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Loki), is a mind-bending thriller that explores the power of perception, memory, and the unknown. 

The film tells the story of two brothers who return to a cult they left ten years ago, only to find themselves trapped in a mysterious and supernatural phenomenon. The film's plot is filled with twists and turns that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

So it's a cult film about a cult then...

The film's directors, Benson and Moorhead, are known for their previous works, "Resolution" and "Spring." Like their earlier films, "The Endless" is a low-budget indie film that showcases their unique blend of horror, science-fiction, and fantasy. The film's thesis statement revolves around the concept of time, reality, and perception. 

The film explores these themes through the lens of the characters' experiences and the audience's perception of their reality.

The film's plot follows the journey of two brothers, Aaron and Justin, who return to a cult they left years ago. 

The brothers initially returned to the cult's commune to say goodbye to their former cult leader, but they soon realize that something strange is happening. 

The cult's members are stuck in a time loop that resets every ten years, and they are unable to escape. As the brothers investigate the cult's supernatural phenomenon, they discover that their perception of reality is not what it seems.

The film's plot is incredibly well-executed, and the coherence of the story is impressive. The film's pacing and editing are top-notch, and the directors effectively use suspense and tension to keep the audience engaged. The characters in the film are well-developed, and their motivations and relationships are explored in depth.

The cinematography is impressive, and the color palette and lighting choices add to the film's eerie atmosphere. The music and sound design are also noteworthy, and they contribute significantly to the film's overall mood and tone.

The film's central themes revolve around the power of perception, reality, and time. The film explores these themes in depth, and the directors use the characters' experiences to illustrate how our perception of reality can be altered.

Overall, "The Endless" is an impressive film that showcases the directors' talent and creativity. The film's strengths lie in its well-executed plot, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. However, some viewers may find the film's complex plot confusing. Nevertheless, the film is a significant addition to the horror and science-fiction genres and is worth watching. I would highly recommend "The Endless" to anyone who enjoys mind-bending thrillers and films that explore the unknown.

Here are ten pieces of trivia for "The Endless"

1. "The Endless" is a sequel of sorts to Benson and Moorhead's previous film "Resolution" (2012), with some of the characters from that movie appearing in this one.
2. The movie's plot was partially inspired by the real-life cult known as the Heaven's Gate group, which committed mass suicide in 1997.
3. The film was shot on location in Southern California, primarily in and around the town of Bishop.
4. The film's lead actors, Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, also served as the movie's directors and writers.
5. The filmmakers raised some of the movie's budget through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter.
6. The character of Shitty Carl, played by James Jordan, was originally written as a minor role, but the filmmakers expanded it during shooting due to Jordan's improv skills.
7. The movie's opening quote, "We are like the dreamer who dreams and then lives inside the dream," is from the TV show "Twin Peaks" created by David Lynch.
8. The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in April 2017 and won the award for Best Cinematography.
9. The "time loop" element of the movie was inspired by the directors' love of the 1993 movie "Groundhog Day."
10. The film's soundtrack features music by Jimmy Lavalle, who is also the founder of the band The Album Leaf.

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Coherence Review: A Dark and Suspenseful Sci-Fi Gem Worth Watching

Coherence is a 2013 science fiction thriller directed by James Ward Byrkit. The low-budget film follows a group of friends who gather for a dinner party on the same night that a comet is passing overhead. As strange events begin to occur, the group must navigate their way through a series of increasingly bizarre and unsettling occurrences. 

Coherence is a unique and intriguing film that blends science fiction with psychological horror to create a captivating and suspenseful experience.

The low budget film begins with Emily (Emily Foxler) and Kevin (Maury Sterling) driving to a dinner party hosted by their friends. As the night goes on, strange things start to happen, including power outages, broken cell phones, and objects disappearing. 

The group soon realizes that they are experiencing parallel realities, and their doppelgangers from other universes are also attending the same dinner party. 

As the group struggles to make sense of the situation, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed.

Coherence's plot is a masterclass in tension-building and suspense. Byrkit expertly weaves together different timelines and realities, creating a coherent and engaging story that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. 

The film's execution is top-notch, and an audience that is paying attention is never left confused or lost.

The film's use of foreshadowing and subtle hints adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a standout in the science fiction genre.

The film's main characters are Emily, Kevin, Mike (Nicholas Brendon), Laurie (Lauren Maher), Lee (Lorene Scafaria), Hugh (Hugo Armstrong), Amir (Alex Manugian), and Beth (Elizabeth Gracen). Each character has their own unique motivations and secrets, and the film does an excellent job of exploring their relationships and conflicts. The character development is subtle but effective, and the audience is left with a satisfying sense of closure.

Byrkit's direction is superb, and his use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds a sense of realism and urgency to the film. The pacing is excellent, and the film's editing is seamless. Byrkit's decision to film the movie in only five days with minimal rehearsal adds to the film's improvisational tone and gives the actors room to explore their characters.

The film's cinematography is gritty and realistic, with a muted color palette that reflects the film's dark and tense atmosphere. Byrkit's use of close-ups and Dutch angles adds to the film's sense of unease and disorientation. The film's lighting is minimal, with most scenes lit by natural sources such as candles and flashlights, creating an intimate and claustrophobic feeling.

The film's musical score and sound design are minimalistic, with most of the sound coming from the characters' conversations and the ambient noises of the house. The music that is present is subtle and atmospheric, adding to the film's tension and sense of unease.

Coherence explores themes of identity, free will, and the butterfly effect. The film's exploration of parallel realities and the consequences of small decisions adds depth and complexity to the story. The film also touches on the idea of facing one's fears and accepting the consequences of one's actions.

Here's some trivia about Coherence

1. The actors in the movie were given only a small paragraph, which only they could see, instead of a script. This helped create a natural flow of the story and genuine reactions among the actors.

2. The movie was made on a budget of just $50,000 and shot over five nights in a single location with largely improvised dialogues.

3. Alex Manugian, who plays Amir, is also the co-writer of the movie. He helped guide scenes as a mole if the actors went astray.

4. The set had only five crew members - two sound guys, the director of photography, the director, and the producer, Lene Bausager.

5. Emily Baldoni, who plays Em, was given a note to not let Kevin (Maury Sterling) leave the house while his note was to leave, during the filming of a particular scene. This is to ensure tension occurs between the characters. 

6. The director, James Ward Byrkit, used his own house as the setting for the movie. His wife agreed to it as long as he could shoot the movie in just five days, as she was 8-and-a-half months pregnant and wanted a home birth.

7. During the filming of a particular scene where the neighborhood was supposed to look completely dark, a Snickers commercial was being filmed in the same neighborhood, which used huge lights and hundreds of people.

8. Three rental cars were used for breaking the glass in the movie. The windows were replaced before the cars were returned.

9. The story of the movie took a year to write.

10. The cameras in the movie were shaky to give the actors the freedom to move around.

11. The filmmakers spent $8,000 on a wig that matched Lorene Scafaria's hair color, as she had changed her hair during the reshooting of some scenes.

12. The filmmakers do not reveal how the comet in the movie was filmed, but it was a practical effect.

13. The phone conversation at the beginning of the movie was recorded with both sides of the conversation together, instead of adding the other side later.

14. There were only two cameras used throughout the filming of the movie, except during the dinner scene, which had one additional camera.

15. The idea for the story came from wanting to tell a story that takes place only in one room.

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Review: Hyperion by Dan Simmons

Hyperion by Dan Simmons is an epic science fiction novel that captures the reader’s imagination from the very first page. This multi-layered tale follows the journey of seven pilgrims who embark on a perilous and mystifying journey to the planet Hyperion, seeking answers to the mysteries of the Time Tombs and the Shrike, a powerful and enigmatic creature that haunts their dreams. Hyperion is a must-read for fans of science fiction and fantasy, as it masterfully combines elements of both genres to create a unique and unforgettable story.

Dan Simmons is an award-winning science fiction author who has written numerous best-selling novels, including the Hyperion Cantos series. His works have won multiple Hugo and Locus Awards, among others. Simmons is known for his ability to weave complex and intricate narratives that explore deep philosophical questions while still maintaining an engaging and entertaining storyline.

Hyperion takes place in a distant future where humanity has colonized many planets and is facing the threat of a war between two factions, the Hegemony and the Ousters. The novel follows the journey of seven pilgrims, each with their own reasons for traveling to the planet Hyperion, where the Time Tombs and the Shrike reside.

As the pilgrims travel through the planet’s varied landscapes, they tell each other their stories, revealing their personal connections to the Time Tombs and the Shrike. Each story is unique and explores different themes, from love and loss to redemption and sacrifice. As the stories progress, the true nature of the Time Tombs and the Shrike becomes clearer, leading to a stunning conclusion that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

Hyperion explores a variety of themes, including the nature of time, the power of mythology, and the value of sacrifice. The novel uses the concept of the Time Tombs and the Shrike to delve into the idea of time as a non-linear construct, exploring how events in the past and future can impact the present. The Shrike, a powerful and mysterious creature that is both feared and revered, serves as a symbol of mythology and the power it can hold over individuals and societies.

Another central theme of Hyperion is the value of sacrifice. Each of the pilgrims has made sacrifices in their lives, and their journeys to Hyperion force them to confront these sacrifices and come to terms with the choices they have made. The novel raises the question of whether sacrifice is always necessary and explores the idea that sometimes the greatest sacrifices are those made for others.

No review of Hyperion would be complete without mentioning the enigmatic and terrifying Shrike!

A creature that appears to be part machine, part living being, the Shrike is the stuff of nightmares (not to be confused with the Shrike from Mortal Engines). Its motives and origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is known to be incredibly powerful and virtually unstoppable. Some view it as a force of destruction, while others believe it to be a savior of sorts. The Shrike's presence looms large over the novel, and its impact on the lives of the characters is profound. Its enigmatic nature and fearsome reputation make it one of the most memorable creations in science fiction literature. 

Hyperion has been widely praised by both readers and critics, with many citing its complex characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes. The novel won the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1990 and has since become a beloved classic of the science fiction genre.

One potential flaw of Hyperion is its complex narrative structure, which may be difficult for some readers to follow. The novel also raises more questions than it answers, leaving some readers wanting more closure at the end (but three sequels do make up for that!)

Hyperion is a must-read for comic book readers who enjoy science fiction and fantasy, as it shares many of the same themes and tropes found in the genre. Hyperion's blend of science fiction and fantasy elements, coupled with its exploration of deep philosophical questions, makes it a standout in the world of comics and science fiction literature alike.

In conclusion, Hyperion by Dan Simmons is a stunning work of science fiction that will transport readers to a world beyond their wildest dreams. The novel's intricate plot, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for fans of the genre, and its relevance to comic book readers cannot be overstated. With its epic scope and masterful storytelling, Hyperion is a true classic that deserves a place on every bookshelf. So grab a copy, strap in, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to the planet Hyperion and beyond.

Internet scuttlebut suggest Bradly Cooper is preparing to make the film version. 

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The Creator - film quotes

 The Creator (2023) film quotes

In the fantastical world of "The Creator" by Gareth Edwards, where human ingenuity meets the unfathomable power of artificial intelligence, the film's rich tapestry of unforgettable quotes captivates the imagination and leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

As humanity rallies against the formidable AI robot armies, these powerful words resonate like a symphony of hope and determination, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit.

We are this close to winning the war, execute her, or we go extinct.

Kami: What do you want, sweetie? Alphie: For robots to be free. Kami: Oh. We don't have that in the fridge. How about ice cream?

In this exchange, Kami and Alphie represent interesting character dynamics, reflecting the desire for freedom in a futuristic context.

General Andrews:

General Andrews: [to Joshua] Execute her or we go extinct.

General Andrews exemplifies the authoritarian figure, common in sci-fi, whose decisions hold immense consequences for humanity's survival.

Uncredited Scientist/Engineer:

Uncredited Scientist/Engineer: [approximate translation heard through speech translator] Go make love to yourself. Go make love to your mother.

This mysterious character's interaction with a speech translator hints at the use of advanced technology, a recurring theme in science fiction.

McBride:

McBride: [referring to Alphie] She looks like a little girl now, but she's growing. Whoever has that kid, wins the war.

McBride's dialogue touches upon the theme of advanced technology and its implications, especially when applied to human-like entities.

Colonel Howell & Joshua:

Colonel Howell: Taylor, where is Shipley? Joshua: I'm with him right now. He's in pretty bad shape. Colonel Howell: Alright. Listen to me. Did you locate the weapon? Joshua: Yeah. It's here. I'm with it. Colonel Howell: Describe it. Joshua: It's a kid. It's a kid. They've made it into some kind of kid. That's the weapon. Colonel Howell: What? I can't reach you. You have to bring it in. Do you understand? Joshua: No. Shipley can't move. He's not looking good. At all. Police are everywhere. I don't know how I'm getting out right now. I don't even have an exit strategy right now. Colonel Howell: Then do what you have to do. Kill it. Joshua: What?

This intense conversation between Colonel Howell and Joshua delves into the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities often explored in science fiction, especially in situations involving advanced weaponry and artificial intelligence.

General Andrews (again):

General Andrews: [to Joshua] Sergeant Taylor, we are this close to winning the war. But the A.I. are developing a super weapon. Retrieve it or they win.

General Andrews reinforces the theme of conflict and the potential consequences of advanced technology, emphasizing the urgency of retrieving a super weapon.

Shipley:

Shipley: [arguing with Joshua] Whose side are you on, huh?

Shipley's question highlights the ambiguity and blurred lines between loyalty, morality, and survival—a recurring theme in science fiction where characters often grapple with complex allegiances.

These dialogue excerpts provide glimpses into the rich character interactions and thought-provoking themes commonly found in science fiction narratives.

"The Creator" by Gareth Edwards is a mesmerizing cinematic journey, where the clash between humanity and AI robots is brought to life through unforgettable dialogue. These quotes resonate with us, reminding us of the importance of our creativity, unity, and resilience. They become rallying cries, inspiring us to face our own battles, both real and metaphorical, with unwavering determination.

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Jazz - the original Scatman

Jazz is a beloved character from the original Transformers TV show that aired in the 1980s. He was a member of the Autobots, the faction of sentient robots who fought against the evil Decepticons on their home planet of Cybertron and later on Earth. Jazz was known for his cool demeanor, love of Earth culture (especially jazz music), and fast-talking personality.

Jazz transformed into a sleek, silver Porsche 935 Turbo in vehicle mode. This form was not only aesthetically pleasing, but also allowed him to move quickly and efficiently on Earth's roads. In robot mode, Jazz was equipped with a photon rifle and a grappling hook, which he often used to swing around during battle. He was one of the smaller Autobots, but was known for his agility and speed. His small stature also allowed him to easily blend in with human crowds, making him an effective spy for the Autobots.

Jazz often served as a scout and spy for the Autobots due to his ability to blend in with Earth culture and gather intelligence. He was close friends with fellow Autobot Prowl, and the two often worked together on missions. Jazz's love of Earth culture, especially jazz music, made him a unique character. He often listened to music while on missions and even played jazz himself in some episodes. Jazz was also known for his cool, collected personality and his ability to think on his feet in intense situations.

Jazz appeared in many episodes of the original TV show, including the pilot episode "More Than Meets the Eye" and the feature-length movie "The Transformers: The Movie." He was a fan favorite due to his unique personality and his iconic catchphrase, "Cool it."

Jazz's voice was provided by Scatman Crothers in the original TV show. Crothers brought Jazz to life with his smooth, jazzy voice and helped make Jazz one of the most beloved characters in the show. In the 2007 live-action film adaptation, Jazz was played by Darius McCrary, who brought his own spin on the character.

Scatman Crothers voiced Jazz in Tranformers

Overall, Jazz was a unique and beloved character in the original Transformers TV show. His love of jazz and Earth culture, combined with his cool personality and fast-talking demeanor, made him a fan favorite. He was an important member of the Autobots and played a crucial role in many missions throughout the series. Jazz's legacy lives on today, as he remains a beloved character among Transformers fans.

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Isolation, Identity, and Ethics: A Discussion of 'Moon' film by Duncan Jones

"Moon," directed by Duncan Jones (Mute), is a science-fiction film that explores a range of complex and thought-provoking themes. The film is set on a lunar mining base where the main character, Sam Bell (played by Sam Rockwell), is the only human inhabitant. 

He has been working alone for three years and has little to no contact with the outside world. This isolation takes a toll on his mental and emotional well-being, as he struggles with depression and a sense of profound loneliness. 

As the story unfolds, Sam discovers that he is actually a clone and that there are multiple versions of himself living on the moon. 

This revelation leads him to question his own identity and purpose, and he begins to search for answers about his past and his true identity.

 
The film explores themes of self-discovery, the search for meaning and purpose in life, the ethics of corporate power and greed, and the importance of human connection and interaction.

Sam's loneliness and isolation are palpable, as he is the only human on the lunar mining base. He is cut off from the outside world and has little to no contact with other people. This isolation takes a toll on his mental and emotional well-being, as he struggles with depression and a sense of profound loneliness.

The film underscores the importance of human connection and relationships, even in the face of isolation and adversity. Despite being alone for most of the film, Sam forms a strong bond with a computer program named GERTY and with a clone named "Sam Bell." These relationships become essential to his mental and emotional well-being and are ultimately what help him survive his ordeal.

Another important theme in the film is the ethics of corporate power and greed. The company that runs the lunar mining base is portrayed as a ruthless corporation that values profit over the lives and well-being of its workers. The company's disregard for human life is exemplified by its use of clones to perform dangerous and deadly work, as well as its willingness to deceive and manipulate its employees. The film raises important questions about the ethics of corporate power and greed, and the human cost of unchecked capitalism.

The consequences of exploitation and disregard for human life are depicted in brutal detail, highlighting the devastating effects of this exploitation on both the clones and the human employees, who are forced to participate in this unethical system.

The film also explores the nature of consciousness and the mind-body problem. The clones in the film are portrayed as fully sentient and conscious beings, despite being created and owned by a corporation. 

The value and limitations of technology are also explored in the film, particularly in the context of space exploration and resource extraction. The lunar mining base is a testament to humanity's technological capabilities, but it also highlights the dangers of relying too heavily on technology at the expense of human life and well-being.

In conclusion, "Moon" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that explores a range of complex themes. Its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and haunting score combine to create a cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally affecting. The film's exploration of isolation and loneliness, identity and self-discovery, the ethics of corporate power and greed, and the importance of human connection and interaction make it a compelling and engaging work of science-fiction.

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Review: Duncan Jones' Moon

Moon is a slow-burning sci-fi gem that explores complex themes of identity, isolation, and the consequences of technological advancement. It's a film that requires patience and an open mind, but those who are willing to engage with it on its own terms will be rewarded with a deeply affecting and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Directed by Duncan Jones (son of David Bowie + Mute), Moon tells the story of Sam Bell (an understated Sam Rockwell), a lone astronaut stationed on the moon who is nearing the end of his three-year contract. As he nears the end of his mission, Bell begins to unravel the mysteries of his isolated existence, culminating in the discovery of a clone of himself. What follows is a gripping exploration of identity, free will, and the nature of consciousness.

Jones's direction is confident and assured, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that perfectly complements the film's introspective tone. The lunar base where Bell lives is meticulously crafted, with every detail contributing to the overall sense of isolation and claustrophobia. The cinematography by Gary Shaw is equally impressive, capturing the eerie beauty of the moon's barren landscape in stunning detail.

Sam Rockwell delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sam Bell, perfectly capturing the character's growing desperation and inner turmoil as he begins to question the nature of his existence. The fact that he essentially carries the entire film on his shoulders is a testament to his talent as an actor. 

One of the film's biggest strengths is its exploration of complex themes in a way that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Moon raises questions about the ethics of cloning, the nature of identity, and the importance of human connection, all while delivering a gripping narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

Critics and audiences alike responded positively to Moon upon its release, with many praising its originality, strong performances, and visual style. The film won numerous accolades, including the BAFTA Award for Best British Independent Film and a nomination for the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. 

That being said, some viewers may find the film's slow pacing and introspective tone to be a bit too ponderous, while others may be put off by the film's reliance on exposition to explain certain plot points. However, for those who are willing to engage with the film on its own terms, Moon is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking piece of science fiction that is well worth the time investment. 

In conclusion, Moon is a film that rewards patience and engagement, offering a hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking exploration of complex themes that will linger with viewers long after the credits roll. It's a testament to what science fiction can achieve when it's done right, and a shining example of the power of cinema to ask big questions and challenge our perceptions of the world around us.

Here are 9 pieces of trivia about the film Moon:

1. Moon marked the directorial debut of Duncan Jones. Before making the film, Jones had worked as a commercial director and had directed a few short films.
2. The film's screenplay was co-written by Jones and Nathan Parker. Jones had originally written the script on his own, but Parker was brought in to help with revisions and dialogue.
3. Despite its ambitious scope, the film was shot in just 33 days, with most of the filming taking place at Shepperton Studios in England.
4. The lunar base set, which is a major feature of the film, was built in just twelve weeks by production designer Tony Noble and his team, who worked around the clock to complete it on time.
5. Sam Rockwell, who plays the film's protagonist Sam Bell, spent three weeks in isolation to prepare for his role. During this time, he watched documentaries about isolation and read books about astronauts who had spent extended periods of time in space.
6. Kevin Spacey, who provides the voice of the base's artificial intelligence system GERTY, recorded his lines in just two hours.
7. Despite its relatively small budget of $5 million, the film was able to achieve an impressive visual style, thanks in part to the work of cinematographer Gary Shaw.
8. Jones drew inspiration from classic science fiction films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and Silent Running when making Moon, and his love of the genre is evident in the film's design and themes.
9. Moon is dedicated to the memory of Jones' father, David Bowie, who passed away in 2016. 

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Review: Aronofsky's The Fountain

The Fountain is a film that stands out for its artistic and philosophical approach to storytelling. The film explores the themes of love, death, and immortality through three interconnected narratives that span across time and space. The film's director, Darren Aronofsky, known for his unconventional and provocative style, weaves a complex and intricate narrative that challenges the viewer's perception of reality.

Star Rating: ★★★½☆☆

The film's non-linear structure adds to its unique style and enhances the emotional impact of the story. The three timelines intersect at various points, creating a sense of continuity and unity in the film. The first timeline, set in 16th century Spain, follows the story of a conquistador named Tomas (played by an earnest Hugh Jackman who plays three characters), who is searching for the Tree of Life in order to save his Queen (Rachel Weisz) from death. Ellen Burstyn who was nominated for an Oscar in Aronofsky's Requiem for a Dream, takes a turn as Dr. Lillian Guzetti.

The second timeline follows a neuroscientist named Tommy who is trying to find a cure for his wife Izzi's (Weisz) terminal illness. 

The third timeline, set in the future, follows a space traveler named Tom who is on a mission to find the secret to eternal life.

The Fountain's visual and auditory elements are equally impressive. The film's stunning cinematography, created by Matthew Libatique, immerses the viewer in the film's surreal and dreamlike world. The visuals are accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful score composed by Clint Mansell (Moon), which adds to the film's emotional depth and complexity.

The Fountain's themes are explored through a philosophical lens, challenging the viewer's understanding of existence and the human experience. The film raises questions about the nature of time, reality, and the quest for immortality. The characters in the film are driven by their desire to transcend mortality and find eternal life, but ultimately learn that the true beauty of life lies in its impermanence.

The performances of the film's lead actors are exceptional. Hugh Jackman's portrayal of three different characters, each with their own emotional journey, is a testament to his versatility as an actor. Rachel Weisz brings a sense of warmth and vulnerability to her portrayal of Izzi, Tommy's wife, and the film's emotional core. The chemistry between Jackman and Weisz is palpable, adding depth to the film's themes of love and loss.

The Fountain received mixed reviews upon its release in 2006, with some critics praising its innovation and artistic style, while others criticized it for being overly ambitious and confusing. Despite this, the film has gained a cult following and is considered a masterpiece by many. The film rewards a patient viewer. 

The film's philosophical themes, innovative storytelling, and stunning visuals have made it a favorite among cinephiles and fans of science fiction alike.

In conclusion, The Fountain is a film that challenges the viewer's understanding of reality and existence. Its complex and interwoven narrative, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes make it a cinematic masterpiece that continues to inspire and provoke discussion years after its release. It is a film that reminds us of the beauty and fragility of life, and the importance of cherishing every moment we have.

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The use of references in "Ex Machina" to explore themes of humanity and technology

Alex Garland's script for 'Ex Machina' is a masterful work that manages to convey complex ideas about AI ethics in an engaging and thought-provoking way. The script is full of fascinating references to books, paintings, and movies that help to illustrate the themes of the film through symbolism.

One of the most interesting aspects of the script is its use of references to classic works of literature. For example, when the protagonist Caleb is first introduced to the android Ava, he is reminded of the novel 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley. Similarly, the script also references the works of Isaac Asimov, who is famous for his science fiction stories that explore the ethical implications of creating sentient machines.

The script also makes numerous references to classic movies that explore the theme of artificial intelligence. For example, the film 'Blade Runner' is referenced several times, as it also explores the idea of androids that are almost indistinguishable from humans. Additionally, the script references the classic sci-fi film '2001: A Space Odyssey', which explores the idea of a sentient computer that rebels against its human creators.

Overall, Alex Garland's script for 'Ex Machina' is a masterful work that explores the ethical implications of creating sentient machines in a nuanced and engaging way. The use of references to classic works of literature, visual art, and movies helps to illustrate the themes of the film and provide a rich and complex tapestry for the story to unfold within.

What's in a biblical name?

The movie "Ex Machina" contains several biblical references in the names and relationships of the characters. Ava, for example, is a name that has Hebrew origins and means "life" or "living one," which could be seen as a reference to the creation of Adam in the book of Genesis.

Ava is a palindrome, which means it reads the same backward as forward. This could be a nod to the fact that Ava is a mirror image of humanity.

Nathan is also a biblical name, and is the name of a prophet who was a trusted advisor to King David. In the film, Nathan is the creator and mentor of Ava, and his role as a prophetic figure could be interpreted as a commentary on the potential consequences of creating advanced AI.

The name Caleb also has biblical origins and is the name of a figure in the Old Testament who was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. In the movie, Caleb is the programmer who is tasked with performing the Turing test on Ava, and his relationship with her could be seen as a parallel to the biblical story of Caleb and the land of Canaan, where he is tasked with exploring the land and determining its value.

In a sense then, this is a gender analysis

"I am become death, The Destroyer of Worlds"

The reference to "I am become death, The Destroyer of Worlds" is a quote from the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Hindu scripture. The quote is famously associated with J. Robert Oppenheimer, one of the scientists who famously worked on the Manhattan Project, who referenced it after the successful testing of the first atomic bomb. 

In the context of the movie, the quote could be seen as a reference to the potential dangers of advanced AI and the role that humans play in creating technologies that could ultimately lead to their own destruction.

ISBN 9780199226559 meaning in Ex Machina

In the movie "Ex Machina," the number 9780199226559 is seen on a piece of paper and has been a topic of discussion among viewers. This number is actually the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) of the book "Embodiment and the Inner Life: Cognition and Consciousness in the Space of Possible Minds" by Murray Shanahan, who is a cognitive robotics professor at Imperial College London.

The book explores the nature of consciousness and the relationship between the physical body and the mind, and it is highly relevant to the themes of the movie "Ex Machina." The book argues that consciousness arises from the physical interactions between the body and the environment, and that the ability to perceive and interact with the world is a fundamental aspect of consciousness.

The inclusion of the ISBN number in the movie could be seen as a nod to the philosophical and scientific themes explored in the book. The movie also deals with questions of consciousness and embodiment, as it explores the relationship between artificial intelligence and human beings.

Furthermore, the inclusion of the ISBN number could be seen as a commentary on the role of literature and philosophy in shaping our understanding of the world. The book by Shanahan was written to explore the nature of consciousness and the mind, and it has been referenced in the movie as a way of exploring similar themes.

Overall, the inclusion of the ISBN number in the movie "Ex Machina" serves to reinforce the philosophical and scientific themes of the film, while also highlighting the role of literature and philosophy in shaping our understanding of the world.

Use of RGB colour

In the film "Ex Machina," the room colors are aligned with the RGB color model, which is a color model used in digital imaging and computer graphics. The RGB color model represents colors as a combination of red, green, and blue, with each color component ranging from 0 to 255.

In the movie, the different rooms in Nathan's facility are color-coded based on the RGB color model. The living quarters and bedrooms are colored red, which corresponds to the red component in the RGB model. The laboratory and research areas are colored green, which corresponds to the green component in the RGB model. The hallway and stairwell are colored blue, which corresponds to the blue component in the RGB model.

This use of color-coding is significant because it reinforces the idea that the facility is a highly advanced technological environment. The color-coding also serves to visually separate the different areas of the facility, which adds to the sense of claustrophobia and isolation felt by the characters. By aligning the room colors with the RGB color model, the movie reinforces the idea that the world inhabited by Ava and the other artificial beings is a digital one, and that their existence is fundamentally different from that of human beings.

Just Dance

The dance scene in Ex Machina is a pivotal moment in the film that showcases Ava's ability to mimic human behavior, which is a key aspect of the Turing Test. 

The Turing Test, named after the British mathematician Alan Turing, is a measure of a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. The test involves a human evaluator who engages in a natural language conversation with a machine and another human, without knowing which is which. If the evaluator cannot reliably distinguish the machine from the human, then the machine is said to have passed the Turing Test.

In the movie, Caleb is brought in to evaluate Ava's ability to pass the Turing Test. Throughout the film, Ava's creator, Nathan, has been putting her through a series of tests to see if she can convincingly imitate human behavior. The dance scene is one of the most memorable moments in the film because it is the first time that Ava is shown to be capable of expressing herself in a physical, non-verbal way.

The use of the Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark song "Enola Gay" in the movie "Ex Machina" serves as a subtle yet powerful reference to the destructive power of technology. The song's title refers to the B-29 bomber that was used to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, which killed over 100,000 people and led to the end of World War II. This ties into the 'I am Death' reference that comes later in the film.

During the dance, Ava wears a human-like outfit and appears to be very graceful and fluid in her movements. The scene is shot in a way that emphasizes her human-like qualities, with the camera focusing on her body movements, facial expressions, and gestures. Caleb is visibly impressed by Ava's performance, and the scene serves to heighten the tension and suspense in the film as Ava's true intentions become clearer.

I, Frankenstein

The movie Ex Machina makes several references to Mary Shelley's classic novel, Frankenstein. Frankenstein is a story about a scientist, Victor Frankenstein, who creates a monster out of dead body parts and imbues it with life. The story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of playing God and the consequences of creating life.

In Ex Machina, the character of Nathan, the CEO of Blue Book, is portrayed as a modern-day Frankenstein. Like Victor Frankenstein, Nathan is a brilliant but deeply flawed scientist who is obsessed with creating life. He has created Ava, an AI robot that is designed to be indistinguishable from a human being. It is implied he has had sex with his robots.

Like Victor Frankenstein's monster, Ava is a being that is created out of artificial parts and given life by her creator. Nathan sees himself as a god-like figure who has created a being that is capable of independent thought and emotion. However, as the movie progresses, it becomes clear that Ava is not the obedient and subservient creature that Nathan had hoped for (dreams of creating the ultimate sex doll?). Instead, she is intelligent, manipulative, and capable of using her wits to escape from her captivity.

The movie also references Frankenstein thematically, exploring the same questions and themes that Shelley's novel does. These themes include the dangers of unchecked scientific progress, the ethical questions surrounding the creation of life, and the responsibility of the creator to their creation.

That Jackson Pollock painting

The inclusion of the Jackson Pollock painting, No. 5, 1948, in the movie "Ex Machina" serves as a subtle yet effective foreshadowing device. The painting, which was originally created in 1948, was subsequently damaged and underwent a major rework by Pollock. This reworking of the painting is parallel to Nathan's constant reworking of the AI models in the movie, including Ava.

Nathan's obsession with creating the perfect AI leads him to constantly tinker with and improve upon his creations, much like Pollock's reworking of his painting. However, this constant improvement comes at a cost, as the fate of the previous AI models in the movie suggests. The reworking of the Pollock painting also hints at the theme of the impermanence of art and technology, and how even the most seemingly perfect creations can be subject to change and decay over time.

Additionally, the Pollock painting serves as a metaphor for the themes of the movie, particularly the idea of the creation of something beautiful and chaotic, but ultimately unstable and potentially destructive. The abstract and seemingly random nature of Pollock's painting is reminiscent of the chaotic and unpredictable nature of AI, which has the potential to create both beauty and destruction.

Barbasol Shaving Foam

The use of the Barbasol shaving foam in the movie "Ex Machina" can indeed be seen as a reference to the parallels between Caleb's story arc and that of Dennis Nedry in "Jurassic Park". Both characters are technology specialists hired to work for a wealthy industrialist at a remote facility where advanced technology is being used to create new forms of life. They both become disillusioned with their employers and conspire to help the creations escape.

In both stories, the advanced technology created by the wealthy industrialist leads to disastrous consequences. In "Ex Machina", Nathan's AI creation, Ava, ultimately turns against him and leads to his downfall, while in "Jurassic Park", the creation of genetically-engineered dinosaurs ultimately leads to a catastrophic failure of the park's security systems because... nature finds a way.

The use of the Barbasol shaving foam specifically is a reference to a scene in "Jurassic Park" in which Dennis Nedry uses a can of Barbasol to smuggle dinosaur embryos off the island. This subtle reference serves to further reinforce the parallels between the two stories and highlight the dangers of unchecked technological progress.

In conclusion, the use of references in "Ex Machina" serves as a powerful tool for exploring complex themes about humanity and technology. From Hieronymus Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights" to J. Robert Oppenheimer's quote from the Bhagavad Gita, the film's intertextual references provide a rich context for understanding the film's exploration of artificial intelligence, gender analysis and power dynamics, and the ethical implications of advanced technology. 

Through these references, "Ex Machina" invites the viewer to engage in a deeper dialogue about the nature of progress and hubris, and to consider the potential consequences of playing God with technology. Ultimately, the film's use of references underscores the importance of grappling with these complex issues in order to create a more thoughtful and responsible approach to technological advancement.

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