Movie Title: Here
Release Date: November 1 (limited) and November 15 (wide), 2024
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Paul Bettany, Kelly Reilly, Michelle Dockery
Description
Here is an ambitious drama from Robert Zemeckis, known for films like Forrest Gump and Back to the Future. The movie reunites Zemeckis with stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in a unique narrative centered on a single geographic location across centuries. Through advanced CGI and innovative storytelling, the film follows how one spot of land undergoes transformation through the lives and experiences of its various occupants.
Plot
The story of Here spans hundreds of years, with its narrative style intertwining snapshots of people’s lives and historical events that occur on the same plot of land. The plot isn’t linear; instead, it unfolds through isolated yet connected moments as generations pass, showcasing the evolution of the location as it becomes a witness to various human stories. From intimate love stories to dramatic moments of struggle, Here delves deeply into the connections between people and their environments. Characters move in and out of the same space over time, creating a mosaic that weaves personal stories with historical shifts.
Theme
The central theme of Here is the permanence of place juxtaposed with the impermanence of human life. By focusing on one setting, the film explores how individuals are shaped by and in turn shape the places they inhabit. Themes of legacy, time, and interconnectedness underpin the narrative, questioning what it means to leave a mark on a place. The film’s use of CGI, such as de-aging technology and historical recreations, underscores the theme of continuity across ages, reminding audiences of the cyclical nature of life.
Review
Critics have highlighted the film’s impressive technical aspects and its thought-provoking exploration of time. Robert Zemeckis’ vision has been praised for combining visual effects with a touching human story that feels both grand and personal. Tom Hanks and Robin Wright deliver memorable performances that anchor the film’s central themes, making Here a meditative journey through time and place. It’s a unique cinematic experience that resonates with viewers who enjoy reflective storytelling and the artistic potential of film as a medium.
