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continuousmonsterdrip
I was continuing to shrink, to become... what? The infinitesimal? What was I? Still a human being? Or was I the man of the future? If there were other bursts of radiation, other clouds drifting across seas and continents, would other beings follow me into this vast new world? So close - the infinitesimal and the infinite. But suddenly, I knew they were really the two ends of the same concept. The unbelievably small and the unbelievably vast eventually meet - like the closing of a gigantic circle. I looked up, as if somehow I would grasp the heavens. The universe, worlds beyond number, God's silver tapestry spread across the night. And in that moment, I knew the answer to the riddle of the infinite. I had thought in terms of man's own limited dimension. I had presumed upon nature. That existence begins and ends in man's conception, not nature's. And I felt my body dwindling, melting, becoming nothing. My fears melted away. And in their place came acceptance. All this vast majesty of creation, it had to mean something. And then I meant something, too. Yes, smaller than the smallest, I meant something, too. To God, there is no zero. I still exist!
Reviews
Eien no hito (1961)
Masterful Production
I saw Kinoshita's 1963 film, A Legend of a Duel to the Death, prior to seeing this. I was overwhelmed by it. I had seen and enjoyed other films of his before this, but none had that unique style of the '63 film. After seeing Immortal Love, it is clear that Kinoshita was capable of that by 1961 as the style is very similar. Both use similar photography and pacing, and both take place in the rural farming country of Japan.
Before I watched this film, I thought the depressing nature of the story might make it less engaging, less entertaining, but it's actually a joy to watch from start to finish. One more point... As intentionally stylized as this film is, it doesn't represent Kinoshita's style in general. I can only think of one other film of his that feels like this, other than Legend... And that is the first part of Koge...('64), The Scent of Incense, which moves and feels somewhat similar. Also Kinoshita has made great films in a different style.
Excellent film.