Why Andrei Tarkovsky Calls Solaris an Artistic Failure

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Why Andrei Tarkovsky Calls Solaris an Artistic Failure

Summary

  • Tarkovsky’s
    Solaris
    is a groundbreaking sci-fi film that delves deep into human emotions and moral dilemmas, straying from typical genre tropes.
  • Despite receiving critical acclaim and accolades, Tarkovsky considered
    Solaris
    an artistic failure for not breaking free from traditional sci-fi constraints.
  • The film transcends time, focusing on inner turmoil and relationships, emphasizing human values over technology and special effects commonly found in the genre.

As a seasoned gamer with a heart for cinema, I must say that watching “Solaris” was like embarking on an interstellar journey through the depths of human emotions. The film transcended its genre, not by eliminating all sci-fi elements, but by redefining them, using them as tools to delve deep into the human psyche.

In the year 1968, the groundbreaking science fiction film “2001: A Space Odyssey,” directed by renowned American filmmaker Stanley Kubrick, made its debut in cinemas. This film was more than just an exciting voyage through space; it was a grand odyssey filled with intricate futuristic elements that captivated audiences worldwide. As a result, it became a box office sensation, earning numerous accolades such as best story, cinematography, soundtrack, and many more. However, another notable figure in the film industry, hailing from the opposite side of the globe, questioned the film’s appeal, arguing that it was overly cold, devoid of emotion, and fixated on a particular kind of futuristic style.

As a passionate gamer delving into the world of film, I’d say that guy was Andrei Tarkovsky, a Soviet director with a unique take on science fiction. Four years after the iconic “2001,” he completed and unveiled his masterpiece—the profoundly emotional “Solaris.” Clocking in at nearly three hours, this film is often lauded as one of the greatest sci-fi movies ever made. Yet, surprisingly, its success bred an unexpected wave of criticism. Even Tarkovsky himself dubbed it a creative disappointment. But why? That’s the question that intrigues me.

Mixing Personal Crises With Science Fiction in Solaris

Essentially, the film adaption of Stanisław Lem’s 1961 novel titled by the same name appears to satisfy science fiction enthusiasts in every aspect. Upon much persuasion, a solitary psychologist named Kris Kelvin (portrayed by Donatas Banionis, who is both Soviet and Lithuanian) visits an isolated space station orbiting planet Solaris to investigate the strange occurrences involving the original three-person crew, which initially numbered over 50 individuals. The surviving trio have been experiencing unusual, almost hallucinatory predicaments. As the story unfolds, it is disclosed that these crises are not mere hallucinations but actual entities – referred to as “visitors” – that seem to emerge from people’s subconscious.

The unusual event was initiated by all the scientists when they aimed vast X-rays at the colossal ocean beneath for examination. Solaris reflects many of Tarkovsky’s signature cinematic techniques, including ongoing debates on human ethics, a gradual, thought-provoking science fiction narrative that poses more questions than it answers, and skillfully placed camera movements enhancing the ongoing sequence. In Solaris, the story becomes increasingly intense when Kris encounters the same predicament as his fellow crew members: Hari, his deceased wife, mysteriously appears, creating a dilemma over moral conduct regarding the planet. However, the peculiar aspect is that she dies and then reappears multiple times.

Tarkovsky Does Not Like Solaris, but Why?

Why Andrei Tarkovsky Calls Solaris an Artistic FailureWhy Andrei Tarkovsky Calls Solaris an Artistic FailureWhy Andrei Tarkovsky Calls Solaris an Artistic Failure

In the extraordinary narrative where people’s innermost truths manifest, duo Hari and Kris serve as pivotal characters in emphasizing the message of Solaris. Kris’ remorse over not being present during Hari’s critical moments and this portrayal of Hari experiencing emotional turmoil about her past contribute significantly to making this science fiction tale feel more authentic. Their connection was intense. Interestingly, the actress who played Hari, Natalya Bondarchuk, reportedly developed feelings for Banionis during Solaris filming. A romance that transcends time, a critically acclaimed science fiction film endorsed by scientists, and numerous awards – yet why does Tarkovsky criticize his own work? He believes it failed to escape the confines of the traditional science fiction genre.

Personally speaking, I found the movie “Solaris” to be less engaging for me due to my personal preference and past experiences with science fiction films. As someone who has been exposed to a wide variety of sci-fi stories, I struggled to find something unique or captivating in Solaris that separated it from other titles within the genre. The fictional details felt predictable and didn’t offer anything fresh or thought-provoking, which made it challenging for me to fully immerse myself in the film’s narrative.

In the documentary “Voyage in Time,” as Tarkovsky embarks on the creation of his penultimate film, Nostalghia, he expresses this viewpoint once more through a significant statement: he does not align with conventional storytelling because he sees it as an escape from reality. He is more captivated by the internal, concealed, and human issues, as well as moral dilemmas, than any technical questions. Furthermore, he equates all genre filmmaking with commercial filmmaking, which he deeply dislikes.

Solaris Is a Film That Transcends Time

When viewing Solaris, it’s clear that Tarkovsky managed to steer away from typical science fiction conventions; however, he perceived that the technical jargon and special effects in Solaris still kept it within the boundaries of the anticipated genre. He felt that more effort was needed to offset these elements. To create a film that he believes accomplishes this balance effectively, Tarkovsky references Stalker (another science fiction movie emphasizing human values and emotions). The weighty responsibility borne by a filmmaker when they believe one of their own films falls short of expectations is likely understood by most.

In the film “Stalker“, though it originated from a science fiction story, I’ve successfully removed any traces of that genre, providing me with great satisfaction.

As a gamer, I’ve just finished watching Solaris, and let me tell you, it’s not your typical sci-fi flick. Instead of focusing on alien invasions or dystopian societies, this movie flips the script by making human emotions and morality the center stage. It’s a breath of fresh air to see a science fiction film that values personal interpretation and connection with characters above all else. If Andrei Tarkovsky could see us today, I think he’d be pleased to know that his innovative approach to storytelling is still resonating with modern audiences. Oh, and by the way, you can stream Solaris for free on YouTube or Max if you want to experience it for yourself!

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2024-08-04 02:01