Rediscovering Cinema: A Deep Dive into Bi Gan’s Surrender to a Century of Cinema
Do you reminisce about the days when we immersed ourselves in films with the same unwavering focus we give our dreams? Bi Gan, the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed Long Day’s Journey Into Night (2018), certainly does. Seven years later, he returns with Surrender to a Century of Cinema, a film that stands as a gorgeous homage to the rich tapestry of 20th-century cinema and the nostalgic dreams that once filled our screens.
A Cinematic Paradox: Merge Dreams and Reality
Creating a film that evokes a sense of childlike wonder while simultaneously mourning its loss is a fascinating paradox at the heart of Surrender to a Century of Cinema. The narrative unfolds in a near-future world—a reflection of our post-pandemic reality—where dreams are synonymous with cinema, and cinema has become a distant memory. In this dystopia, the art of dreaming has ceased to exist, posing a poignant dilemma for both characters and audiences alike.
The Sci-Fi Premise: Dreams as a Commodity
The film’s intricate sci-fi foundation is established through silent-movie-style intertitles that weave together influences from classics like Stalker and Blade Runner. In this unique universe, humankind discovers that longevity lies in suppressing dreams—akin to a wax candle that refuses to burn. However, a group known as the "Fantasmers" emerges, ardently resisting this enforced reality, reminding us that choosing to dream can sometimes lead to chaos and disruption in the fabric of time.
Layered Narratives: Nesting Dreams within Dreams
From the outset, we are drawn into a series of nested dream narratives, each portraying a different cinematic era and engaging one of the five senses. The initial segment introduces us to the Fantasmer, portrayed by Jackson Yee, whose performances range across five distinct personas. Accompanying him is Shu Qi as the poignant Big Other, a character wrapped in fashion choices that pay homage to Bi Gan’s aesthetic vision.
This captivating segment showcases the remarkable production design by Liu Qiang and Tu Nan, delivering an atmospheric visual feast reminiscent of an ornate opium den, complete with whimsical, stop-motion puppetry. As the narrative shifts, we’re engulfed in a German expressionist maze, a striking homage to cinema’s historical evolution, where Shu Qi’s graceful movements echo the dance sequences of The Red Shoes.
A Pursuit Through Time: The Fantasmers’ Journey
As the story unfolds, the character arcs become increasingly complex. The Big Other captures the Fantasmer, only to be influenced by his resolve to thrive within his dream life. This longing leads to a profound and visually stunning moment as she opens him up, exposing a projector that reveals his numerous reincarnations.
Each installment introduces new genres and styles—from wartime noir to fables that echo Chinese folklore, all while maintaining a chase motif that permeates the film. These dynamic narratives offer rich visual imagery and emotional depth, reminiscent of various cinematic influences, from the dramatic to the absurd.
The Interplay of Time and Subjectivity
In a breathtaking 40-minute uninterrupted take, the film delves into the heart of character subjectivity, punctuated by action and stylized sequences. Though this segment may not match the transcendent experience of its predecessor, it is mesmerizing in its own right. The clever manipulation of time and perception draws viewers into a chaotic yet cohesive world where memories and dreams collide.
A Reflection on Modern Cinema and Isolation
During the pandemic, Bi Gan reimagined the film, drawing on the unexpected effects of isolation, including vivid dreams—a phenomenon that has diminished in our post-COVID reality. In this context, he critiques the changes in cinema brought about by advancing technology and evolving viewer habits. He posits a nostalgic yearning for cinema’s immersive beauty, a longing for the refuge it once provided, away from the mundane.
A Challenging but Rewarding Experience
With its intricate narrative and ambitious vision, Surrender to a Century of Cinema may challenge viewers who prefer simpler structures. Yet, for those nostalgic for the way films once captivated our souls, this cinematic offering serves as a reminder of the paradoxical joys of surrender and immersion. It becomes a dazzling lesson in the lost art of letting go—a celebration of the dreams both onscreen and in our hearts.
In conclusion, Bi Gan’s latest work invites us to revisit the enchanting world of cinema, encouraging us to embrace the dreams that once defined our artistic experiences. Dare to indulge in this mesmerizing journey, and perhaps you’ll discover that the beauty of cinema—that exquisite sensorial illusion—is still worth pursuing.
For more on Bi Gan and his masterpieces, check out Variety’s coverage for the latest insights and discussions in the film community.
