No. 73 (2022) THREE THOUSAND YEARS OF LONGING Sept 4th.

 

Film No. 73 (2022)  September  4th.  3.50 PM   Cinema 1.  LUNA,  Leederville.

 

"This is the story of the mysteries and paradoxes of life" (George Miller's succinct opening sentence summarizing his new and most ambitious film to date).

George Miller branches out and makes a unique film about love, the past and stories well told. My thoughts wandered to ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND; arguably the most unique example of a cinematic love story. I hope George might be flattered by my observation. 

Tilda Swinton and Idris Elba form an attractive alliance in this adult fairy-tale. Swinton's Alithea is a narratologist. She travels the world lecturing in the history of storytelling. So, what could shock an expert in the history of narrative prose? A genie appearing from a newly acquired small glass bottle might do the trick. A genie in the form of Elba (Djinn),  pointed ears and all.

Miller cleverly uses Alitea as his vehicle for an ultimate story tale. Why not a professor of story telling coming face to face with the ultimate fictional symbol, a genie, no less. Once released, Djinn gives his usual commands relating to wishes but he has his caveats. He's been locked in bottles throughout time. Alitea listens to his stories told over centuries of experiences. The re-enacted images of his past adventures gives Miller his chance to remind us of his creative brilliance. 

Ultimately YEARS OF LONGING is a love story. It's Djinn's adventures through time that captures ours and Alitea's imagination. He has tasted freedom. He wishes to remain free but he has never been in control of his destiny. Could he have found his ultimate saviour? With every story of his missed opportunities, by film's end, we are hoping he or maybe even they, live happily ever after! But be warned; it's less of an ending but more of a finishing. It's my only minor criticism!   10GUMS.