Lux Æterna is a stunningly beautiful and thought-provoking movie directed by Gaspar Noé, a master of the art of filmmaking. The film explores the concept of respect for beliefs and the deep connection between the actor's craft and the art of filmmaking.
The movie begins with a quote from the 1914 classic Berlin: Symphony of a Metropolis, "The waves of creative energy beat endlessly against the shores of cultural expression." The quote sets the tone for the film, which takes place on the set of a fictional film being directed by Noé himself.
Lux Æterna follows the tumultuous production of a film about witches that is being shot on the French Riviera. The film's star, Béatrice Dalle, and the director of photography, Benoît Debie, play versions of themselves and provide insight into the inner workings of the film industry.
Throughout the movie, Noé explores the importance of respecting beliefs and traditions, and the consequences of ignoring them. The film is full of powerful imagery and symbolism, such as a giant phallic sculpture that rises over the set during the shoot, and a scene where Dalle leads a group of women in a ritual dance that culminates in a violent and shocking sacrifice.
Noé's masterful use of color and light, and his innovative camera work, make Lux Æterna a feast for the eyes. The film's score, composed by Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk, adds to the overall sense of unease and surrealism.
At its core, Lux Æterna is a meditation on the power of cinema and its ability to both reflect and shape our culture and beliefs. Noé asks us to question our assumptions and to look beyond the surface to find deeper meaning and understanding. The film is a powerful reminder that the art of filmmaking is not just about creating entertainment, but about exploring the human condition and our place in the world.
