TL;DR
Darren Aronofsky's "Noah" reimagines the biblical tale with a modern twist, blending ancient prophecy with environmental themes and a surprisingly effective depiction of fallen angels as stone giants. The film explores humanity's relationship with the planet and the moral complexities of survival, questioning who deserves salvation when faced with a divine cleanse. Despite its liberties, "Noah" offers a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience, delving into profound questions about faith, morality, and the origin of existence. It's a film that encourages contemplation, even for the secular. Intrigued by its unique take and thought-provoking narrative? Dive into the full review to discover more.
As long-time admirers of Darren Aronofsky, we were both surprised and intrigued by his choice to tackle a story from the Old Testament as his first major Hollywood studio film. Many of us grew up with simplified versions of the Noah’s Ark narrative, but the film prompts reflection on the deeper significance of this story for contemporary audiences, extending beyond mere cultural curiosity.
For those less familiar with the biblical narrative, here’s a spoiler-filled synopsis: Noah (portrayed by Russell Crowe), a descendant of Seth (the third son of Adam and Eve, after Cain slew Abel), stands with his family (wife Naameh, played by Jennifer Connelly, and their three sons, Ham, Shem, and Japheth) against a tribe of Cain’s descendants, intent on industrializing and dominating the Earth. As resources dwindle, they exploit what remains with increasing intensity. Noah receives a vision that God (referred to here as the Creator) intends to cleanse the world with a great flood, and that he must construct an ark to preserve a breeding pair of each animal species, allowing the world to be reborn free of wickedness.
Aronofsky takes considerable artistic liberties with the story, introducing elements such as stone giants that initially evoke the Ents from The Lord of the Rings. However, their backstory is soon revealed: they are fallen angels who attempted to aid humanity after the Fall (Adam & Eve’s consumption of the forbidden fruit) and were subsequently punished by the Creator, merging with the earth and stone. This concept is surprisingly effective. Further modernizations include a pronounced environmental message (we must protect Earth’s resources or face dire consequences) and a conspicuous veganism agenda.
Darren Aronofsky identifies as an atheist. Yet, as evidenced in The Fountain and again in Noah, a recurring epic and spiritual tone pervades his work, suggesting a deliberate choice in selecting this particular story. While secular perspectives may readily dismiss religious narratives as mere fables, they often overlook the underlying insights into humanity, morality, and the fundamental question of our existence. Even those who embrace scientific explanations like the Big Bang and evolution theory are left to ponder the ultimate question: how did everything originate, and what existed before the beginning?
The human dimension of Noah unfolds in the interactions between characters, highlighting a dialectic through the figure of the egoistic Tubal-cain (Cain’s son, played by Ray Winstone). Noah is tasked with building an ark to save the animals, but no other humans (besides his family) are permitted to board. Are all the humans destined to perish truly evil? Are Noah and his family so different that they would not resort to any means to protect their own, even violence? What will become of humanity afterward, when Noah and his family are the last remaining people? Will this mark the end of humankind?
Noah may not be Darren Aronofsky’s most powerful or intensely personal film, but it remains surprisingly human and affecting, culminating in a poignant finale. The visual effects are generally well-executed, and the film is particularly strong in its depiction of weather phenomena and the deluge. The film excels in its character interactions, exploring themes of weakness, ethical dilemmas, dreams, faith, and the meaning of life, forcing characters to confront ultimate choices. These choices, ironically, determine humanity’s fate.
Those with an open mind, a spiritual inclination, and an appreciation for timeless stories should consider seeing Noah. It is a visually appealing, lavish, and emotionally resonant film. However, the 3D presentation is largely inconsequential and can be skipped.
