Resurrection Review: A Visually Stunning Exploration of an Old Universe and a New China

Bi Gan’s latest film, Resurrection, premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival and is nothing short of a visual feast—a mesmerizing phantasmagoria that challenges both time and perception. Building on the experimental foundations laid in his previous work, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, Gan crafts an experience that is as much a hallucination as it is a narrative.

The Journey Begins: A Visual Masterpiece

Resurrection invites viewers into a world where the boundaries of reality blur and where dreams come with a heavy price. In this alternate universe, humans have discovered a peculiar truth: they can live indefinitely without dreaming. Yet, this profound concept raises questions about overpopulation and the essence of existence itself.

A Historical Tapestry

This film unfolds like an episodic journey through pivotal moments in Chinese history, culminating in a reflective examination of New Year’s Eve 1999. This specific moment holds significance for filmmakers in China, serving as a backdrop for exploring feelings towards the rise of capitalism juxtaposed with the political conformity of the old ways.

Gan deftly entwines the surreal with the historical, making each segment a unique vignette that contributes to a larger narrative tapestry.

The Fantasmer: An Enigmatic Protagonist

At the heart of this narrative lies the Fantasmer, played by Jackson Yee—a character embodying contradictions. His ability to dream allows him to experience different lowlife existences across various historic timelines. But is it truly his dreaming or merely a reflection of the woman observing his journey? The film provocatively places this question at its core.

A Kaleidoscope of Time

The Fantasmer navigates a range of vivid scenarios:

• An antique silent movie setting, reminiscent of Nosferatu, where he becomes embroiled with a mysterious woman (played by the renowned Shu Qi).
• A World War II mirror shop showdown filled with tension and visual references that pay homage to classics like Welles’s The Lady From Shanghai.
• A chilling encounter with a Spirit of Bitterness in a wintry temple, punctuating the character’s personal evolution.

As the century turns, we see the Fantasmer engage in a card-sharping scheme, deftly pulling unsuspecting victims into his web in yet another illusion of survival.

Is it Resurrection or Transformation?

The film’s title, Resurrection, raises intriguing questions: Is the Fantasmer truly undergoing transformation, or is he, like a pulsating star, existing in a perpetual cycle of rebirth? This ambiguity, although perplexing, enhances the film’s allure, inviting viewers to ponder the meanings behind each vivid frame.

A Masterclass in Visual Artistry

Gan’s artistic choices cater to both the subconscious and the cerebral. The film’s striking visuals, combined with a riddling narrative, create a captivating experience that may not cater to everyone’s taste, leaving some viewers contemplating the motivations behind its stylistic choices.

As a work of true artistry, Resurrection challenges preconceived notions while pushing the boundaries of conventional cinema.

Final Thoughts

With its daring storytelling and stunning cinematography, Resurrection stands as a testament to Bi Gan’s ambition and creativity. Whether you find yourself enchanted by its mysteries or questioning its reality, the film undoubtedly leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of modern cinema.

Catch this breathtaking narrative and immerse yourself in Resurrection—a journey that may just redefine your understanding of existence itself.

For more insights on the Cannes Film Festival, check out this Cannes Film Festival Guide.