How do we reconcile the inevitability of death?
How do we reconcile the inevitability of desire?
These are questions Christian Bales character Rick ponders and confronts in director Terrence Malicks seventh feature filmKnight of Cups.
Bale is often noted for his amorphous physicality as an actor.
Yet, inKnight of Cups, Malick lingers on Bales face, content to let his visage convey all.
When we do hear Bales voice in the film, no longer is it the gravelly roar of Batman.
Rather, we lean inwanting to hear what he discloses.
Ricks character of contradictions mimics that of the Knight of Cups in a tarot deck.
/ Everything I do is stitched with its color.
Portmans presence is as abbreviated and unforgettably lyrical as Merwins poem.
Does Portmans Elizabeth negate all of Ricks failed attempts at meaningful connections with women?
Is it she that he constantly seeks at the seas shore?
The camera tracks her running down the beach in a soaked dress with insatiable hunger, as does he.
His voiceover states, Have I found you?
We want to soak in her presence (and in Bale and Portmans chemistry).
Malick is no stranger to inconclusive themes or subjects.
Rating:
4 out of 5
