Film Review: ‘Eternal (For evigt)’ directed by Ulaa Salim
Rating: ★★★★☆
Ulaa Salim’s “Eternal (For evigt)” had its world premiere at the prestigious Big Screen Competition of the 2024 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). The film navigates the complex interplay of climate change, human choices, and their repercussions, creating a narrative rich in symbolism and societal reflections.
“Eternal” follows Elias, a dedicated climate scientist, who falls in love with Anita, an aspiring singer. A pivotal moment presents Elias with a choice – pursue a dangerous mission studying a mysterious climate change phenomenon or prioritize his budding romance. Years later, haunted by visions of an alternate life, Elias becomes consumed by the quest to reclaim his past love and existence.
Director Ulaa Salim introduces the film with a dual perspective, immediately engaging the audience with a distant view symbolizing an uncertain future and a close view emphasizing present certainty. This narrative device sets the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s collective impact on the environment and our collective responsibility for the impending crisis.
The film opens with a visually striking scene where a man, driven by his dog, faces a cliffside overlooking the sea. As the land collapses into the ocean, the symbolism becomes apparent – a metaphor for the impending tragedy of climate change that humans, in the filmmaker’s eyes, are both responsible for and unable to escape. The film challenges the notion of evasion, suggesting that there is no escape from the consequences of our actions.
In terms of technical brilliance, the cinematography and editing of “Eternal” are commendable. Notable scenes, like Elias and Anita’s encounter in a vibrant nightclub, showcase a striking red color palette that serves as a powerful symbol of love and passion. The fluid camera movements and well-paced editing contribute to an immersive experience, effectively connecting the audience with the characters and the unfolding narrative.
The performances by Simon Sears and Nanna Øland Fabricius as Elias and Anita stand out, breathing life into their characters. The meticulously crafted setting and evocative sound design add depth to the on-screen interactions, providing a sensory backdrop that enhances the film’s emotional resonance.
Characterization emerges as a key strength in “Eternal,” with the director skillfully portraying Elias and Anita as representatives of contrasting societal perspectives. Elias embodies a young scientist grappling with environmental concerns and a commitment to finding solutions, while Anita represents a carefree individual embracing the joys of life until a profound crisis shakes her world. The intersection of these two characters becomes a poignant commentary on the delicate balance between responsibility and living in the moment.
The film’s dialogue and metaphors align seamlessly with its motifs, weaving a rich subtext that enhances the narrative. From Anita metaphorically sexualizing Elias’s discourse on the fracture to subtle metaphors at a costume party named “End of the World,” the film cleverly integrates these elements into its thematic fabric.
A central motif revolves around fertility and its intricate connection to nature, intertwining with the broader issue of climate change. Anita’s pregnancy becomes a focal point, exposing the contrasting approaches of Elias, who sacrifices fertility for ambition, and Anita, who aligns herself with nature, preserving life. This narrative thread unfolds as a microcosm of humanity’s grappling with the consequences of its choices in the face of environmental challenges.
In a broader context, the film explores the fracture as a metaphor for human selfishness and ambition. Elias’s relentless pursuit of personal goals results in an irreparable void in his life, symbolizing the broader impact of human actions on the environment. The journey to the fracture becomes a compelling exploration of humanity’s past mistakes and their enduring consequences.
Elias, as a symbol of humanity’s destructive tendencies, continues to grapple with his ambitions even after realizing Anita’s enduring family life. His refusal to accept a life spent in pursuit of a solution to save nature, coupled with the potential destruction of Anita’s joyful existence, underscores the film’s thematic complexity.
In a poignant resolution, Elias surrenders himself to the fracture, allowing the annihilation of destructive elements within him. This marks a transformative moment for him, as he finds meaning in a life that extends beyond selfish desires. The images preceding the culmination of his life symbolize a newfound sense of purpose and constructive existence. The film beautifully concludes with the dissipation of humanity’s destructive essence within the fracture in “Eternal,” leaving room for contemplation on our collective responsibility in shaping a sustainable future.
