This film shares a storyline with Midsommar, the Witch, and Hereditary. The story of mankind's pursuit of purpose and belonging in a world that is hostile. Does a great job of showing different ways that humans react to the reality that we have killed our planet-- from wide-eyed realism (the Astronomer), to willful ignorance and attempt to find enjoyment where possible (main character), and all the way to crippling despair and grief (Isagel). All of these movies show how occults become a source of meaning, purpose, and belonging- and become an escape from the cold and isolation of reality. Like 'One flew over the cuckoo's nest,' the film offers no panacea to the horrific realities of mankind, instead focusing on articulating reality. Although it does not offer a solution, and there is no happy ending, the message may be exactly that-- that humans have the choice of hope, realism, or despair. That while realism and despair are rational, hope is literally what keeps us alive. While the plot is dark like the movies mentioned above, the takeaway is actually in line with 'Palm Springs' (2020)- a film that illustrated how love and connection makes the human experience worthwhile. This is a work of art that illustrates the reality of humanity and our emotions- as such, it does feel open-ended- but that's the point and what makes this film so wonderful.
Review of Aniara
