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To
film lovers it would seem obvious that Tran Anh Hung, was
heavily influenced by French cinema especially the work of the master
director of artistically based films; Robert Bresson. Bresson was known
for making films about the inherent substance of his characters... their
inner beauty and surrounding environment rather than their day-to-day
escapades. Of Tran's first three films, "The Vertical Ray of the Sun" most encapsulates that ideal. |
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The Vertical Ray of the Sun by Anh Hung Tran Review of the film and DVD by Gary W. Tooze
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Passive and
artistically mysterious in its details, yet fully acceptable to Art film devotees,
the story of three sisters flutters between multiple paths in present day Hanoi. An elliptical narrative
starting with a traditional memorial on the anniversary of a Mothers' death and ending with a similar gathering
commemorating the deceased Fathers' birthday one month later.
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| Each scene seems to overflow with beauty, whether in the surrounding environment with its crisp chirping sounds of birds, insects, rain or the unique art objects that adorn many of the households that we enter into. It is so easy to get sensual comfort from this film, that the details, which at times can be hazy, are all secondary. When they become clearer, as the film progresses, we then realize how close we have become to its characters. | ||
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What
beauty of both the scenery and subtle characterizations “The Vertical
Ray of the Sun” evolves into a masterpiece of art. Awash in multiple
shades of green it left me mesmerized.  out of
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DVD and Film Details |
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The Columbia/Tristar DVD is perhaps one of
the most beautiful I own. Anamorphic with stirring, sharp visuals and
removable English subtitles. The
Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround is crisp. Not much to comment on the extras;
a few trailers and star/director filmographies.
The artistic overtones are so thoroughly encapsulating I was visually stunned by the whole thing. Yes... I recommend the purchase, even if viewing for only the cultural imagery as one might view a "Baraka" or "Koyaanisqatsi". Buy From Amazon (CLICK LOGO):
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| Credited cast overview:
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Technical
Information
Release Information: Aspect Ratio(s): Discographic Information: Edition Details: |
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