“Whenever I find myself growing grim about the mouth; whenever it is a damp, drizzly November in my soul; whenever I find myself involuntarily pausing before coffin warehouses…then, I account it high time to get to sea as soon as I can” – Herman Melville, Moby Dick
Composition, contrast and clarity are stunning. A deep study of light, how it casts, what is hidden in the shadows, revealed and softly glows.
Not a script with minced words. Dialogue is minimal, but poignant. Palpable tension between an veteran seafarer and his young cohort. Somewhat esoteric musings from the old captain, and other times he shares sagacity that is worth contemplating.
Exposed to the elements, both must soldier through their tedious tasks. Dafoe is weathered and careworn in both his voice and face. His nautical way of speaking adds color to this gorgeous monochromatic film. Experience and time in his nature wear down the boss’s character which weighs heavily on Winslow. Too much life behind one, everything yet to come in front of the other.
Mystical and mysterious dreams are envisioned by Winslow, who seems to be plagued with fears: death, god, and the unknown. Why are sea birds such ominous omens? If they carry the stories of all the sailors long gone, then they must be precious and worthy of respect as something sacred. Nevertheless, Winslow cannot escape his haunting visions that prey on him with the threat of something foreboding. Other times what he sees will begin as cathartic escapes from the everyday routine, but there is an undertone of impending doom.
Between Wake and Winslow, a bond is made. Perhaps from that of solidarity, a simple appreciation of shared responsibilities. It’s still not enough to bring about true peace between these two. Recall the churning sea, in rhythm with the thunderous waves, and they do not seem to cease. An extended metaphor of their circumstances and laborious attempt at a working friendship through work. Booming foghorn blasts are a merciless reminder that they will not leave this place or truly accept one another anytime soon.
What a wonderful exploration of monologues as if on the naked stage. A beautiful display of both actors abilities to entertain in the original art of storytelling through oral tradition. This tale could be told without the delicate craft of film-making and editing in some parts, perhaps by a fireside.
Some folks who do not see this movie as a work of carefully crafted art, may grow bored early on. However, if you can appreciate seeing creativity, fantastic camera angles and a fabulous character study, The Lighthouse will not disappoint. If you see what I see, you’ll wish you had a book of still frame shots to admire long after the final scene.
Dive in if you dare, you scoundrels and scalawags!
Rating: 7.4/10
Through the Looking Glass 