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Heaven (2002)
Pinnacle of Ecstasy
Do not expect an action film, a love story, a tough gangster film, or any of the other cliches. This was written by the polish duo Kieslowski and Piesiewicz who gave us the Three Colour trilogy. These are films for those that want to enjoy the art of film making and not just watch a story in pictures for an hour or so. This film is in the same style.
Starting with the first title sequence, in the helicopter simulator, you are encouraged to think about what you are watching. All through the film you are guided in how the film is developing, so much is signaled before it happens yet somehow the film still manages to achieve twists that surprise you. As with the previous trilogy the story and characters serve as a vehicle for exploring the topic; what does Heaven mean for us while still in a mortal life. It is not the never ending bliss that we are told can be achieved in after life, but it is a moment where we can rise above all the trouble, grief, horror and pain that can beset us as we live our daily lives and have to come to terms with the results of our actions which may not always be what we intend.
The acting by the two leads was superb and you really cared about the two even though you know it could never workout for them. The cinematography was also outstanding, which is crucial for films such as these that are tackling philosophical and moral issues as well as telling a story. Towards the end of the film when the couple are on the run in the Italian countryside one is reminded of the opening helicopter sequence as the scenery looks so similar and think to your self "what was that all about?". When you get to the final scene however it all becomes clear.
An excellent film that will stay with you for several days after viewing. Highly recommended for the serious film enthusiast. I am eagerly awaiting the sequel, L'Enfer (not the Chabrol one - also good) which is in post production at the moment (2005).
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