HIGH LIFE: Eros and Thanatos in outer space

HighLife-2-mtltimes-web

Yes, love, sex, death, and, I should add, boredom –both, among the not-so-willing cosmic travellers involved in a mysterious experiment, as well as among the spectators of this film. Claire Denis directed and co-wrote this movie (with Jean-Pol Fargeau and Geoff Cox). After seeing the movie, it is hard to describe it. “High Life” could be called a failed attempt to explore some deep undercurrents in the human mind (which are not so clear), or a pretentious cinematic exercise where the use of some lurid sex scenes combined with a tender relationship between the protagonist and his baby girl is supposed to incite some search for meanings among the spectators.

“High Life” features acclaimed actress Juliette Binoche as Dr. Dibs, in charge of a group of naughty men and women who are sent on a spaceship to the confines of the solar system. We don’t know much about what those individuals did on the Earth, but at one point we learn that Dr. Dibs is the worst of all when she brags about her crimes being really the worst, to which those of her experiment subjects are just “petty crimes.”

The story is narrated in three different times: at first, we see Monte (Robert Pattinson) fixing something in the spaceship and taking care of baby Willow (Scarlett Lindsey) by then, they are the only survivors of the mysterious mission. By the way, the spacecraft is a massive structure which re-creates a kind of Earth-like environment, even with its own garden. In the second part of the story, the interaction –often violent and conflictive- among the members of the group is portrayed. However, despite the clear signs of conflict, the movie doesn’t explicitly tell us when or why the tragic end of the lives of most of the other members of the group occurs. Finally, in the last section, we see Willow now as a teenager (played by Jessie Ross) with her father Monte, at a moment when the spaceship is approaching a black hole. Question mark, we could say, since everything is open to interpretations in ways that we don’t suspect since no clues are given.

“High Life” is a film that fails to fulfill its purposes, regarding the science-fiction aspect the setting doesn’t provide the atmosphere of a spaceship and at times it looks more like the interior of an apartment building, while the space suits seem to be recycled beekeeper outfits. The drama aspect, on the other hand, is plagued by too many unexplained and disconnected events, the conversation of a professor with a journalist on a train which doesn’t lead to anything, for instance. Of course, I don’t recommend this movie, unless you really have nothing better to do.

By: Sergio Martinez – info@mtltimes.ca
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
Is it possible to get an A for a 5-paragraph essay assignment in 1 hour? We can safely say yes, a student can get an A+ mark if he turns to EduJungles


drug addiction

Why drug addiction is a problem that cannot be ignored

Drug addiction, with its insidious grip on individuals and communities alike, stands as one of the most pressing issues of our time. It’s a problem that transcends socio-economic boundaries, affecting people from all walks of life. From the suburbs to urban centers, its impact reverberates through families, workplaces, and society at large. Ignoring the depth

Combating Harassment

Raising Awareness: Legal Strategies for Combating Harassment in Canada

In the modern world, where the dynamics of interpersonal relations are constantly evolving, the issue of harassment has emerged as a critical concern that demands our immediate attention. Canada, known for its strong stance on human rights, offers a comprehensive legal framework aimed at combating harassment in all its forms. This article delves into the

ultimate online casino

Discover your ultimate online casino destination in Canada

Ever noticed how the thrill of the casino can now be found not just in sprawling complexes adorned with flashy lights but right in the comfort of your own home? Yes, your ultimate online casino destination in Canada is revolutionizing the way we engage with gambling and betting games, offering everything from slots and table games to

Montreal to Miami

Traveling from Montreal to Miami? Here Are Some Legal Precautions and Tips

It takes more than just excitement to begin your journey from Montreal to Miami; there are legal matters to take care of to ensure a trouble-free trip. Now, let’s go into some significant legal issues and helpful advice to assist you, from preparing before you travel to avoiding difficulties while in Miami. Are you prepared

Netflix launch game streaming

Netflix launch game streaming service in Canada

Netflix has rolled out their beta for game streaming. Right now it’s only available to a small selection of members in Canada and the UK. The limited test launched with another rollout set to take place in the coming weeks. The global streaming platform launched its games service in 2021, but they have since acquired

gaming companies

How does the new privacy law framework affect gaming companies?

What is the new law? Quebec has introduced its new privacy law framework to prevent companies from collecting unnecessary data from its customers to protect the province’s residents, and it imposes responsibilities on companies and organizations that handle data. Known as Law 25, the legislation aims to modernize the existing data privacy framework and align

Mtltimes Subscription

The latest on what’s moving Montreal and the world – delivered straight to your inbox