Three Thousand Years of Longing - 💥💥💥

Director: George Miller
Writers: George Miller and Augusta Gore
Release Date: 2nd September 2022 

Hot Rating: 💥💥💥

Synopsis: A modern fairytale about Alithea (Tilda Swinton), a lonely scholar who discovers a Djinn (Idris Elba) during a trip to Istanbul and is offered three wishes for the freedom of the Djinn. As the two get acquainted, they exchange stories of love, loss, and longing, and discover an enduring connection. 

Review: For a film that is so visually expressive, embellished with mythological costume and colourful set design, Three Thousand Years is deceptively simple in its execution. At times, this simplicity works — when retelling old tales and introducing tragic characters. Other times, the story feels clunky and unengaging. Perhaps the central flaw is the lack of chemistry between the lead actors. They possess a natural awkwardness that is relevant for their character’s surprise introduction. However, when the narrative presses them to emote and kindle a friendship with one another, their bond feels unconvincing. However, that's not to say Swindon and Elba don't seem to enjoy their roles; like the overlapping stories they inhabit, their performances feel memorable, if only within the context of being recalled in many years to come. In short, this film might pick up a cult following in years to come but, for now, it is relegated to myth.

Image: YouTube