Bi Gan’s latest film, “Resurrection” (狂野时代), isn’t simply a movie; it’s an experience. Released in 2025 and currently playing at the Amherst Cinema, the film is a breathtakingly ambitious work that explores the highly nature of cinema and the human condition. It’s a demanding watch, clocking in at two hours and 39 minutes, but one that rewards patience with a deeply moving and unforgettable journey through dreams, memory, and mortality. The film, a Latest York Times Critic’s Pick, has quickly become a talking point for cinephiles seeking something beyond the mainstream.
Structured as an anthology, “Resurrection” follows the final moments of a “Deliriant,” a rebel who dares to dream in a world where dreaming has been sacrificed for the promise of immortality. This journey unfolds across four distinct dream worlds, spanning a century of cinematic history. The film isn’t about providing easy answers; it’s about immersing the viewer in a sensory and emotional landscape that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s a film about what it means to be alive, and what we lose when we cease to dream.
A Cinematic Odyssey Through Time
Jackson Yee delivers a captivating performance as the Deliriant, seamlessly shifting identities within each dreamscape. From a conflicted conman to a young man searching for love, Yee embodies the fluidity and ephemerality of the character’s existence. The film’s structure allows Yee to showcase remarkable range, tailoring his performance to each genre the film explores – silent film expressionism, film noir, Buddhist fable, neorealism, and underworld romance. Supporting actress Shu Qi likewise appears in the film, though details about her role are less prominent in available information.
Bi Gan, known for his previous works “Kaili Blues” (2015) and “Long Day’s Journey Into Night” (2018), continues his signature style of creating fantastical and atmospheric worlds. “Resurrection” opens with a striking homage to German expressionist cinema, unfolding initially without dialogue, relying instead on intertitles to convey exposition. This stylistic choice, whereas initially disorienting, draws the viewer into the film’s dreamlike logic. The film’s pacing is deliberate, training the audience to surrender to its rhythms and embrace the ambiguity.
Sensory Deprivation and the Power of Dreams
The film masterfully manipulates the senses, not just sight and sound, but also taste, smell, and touch. While the specifics of how these senses are engaged are best experienced firsthand, the film’s sound design is particularly noteworthy. Abrupt shifts between loud, cluttered soundscapes and ringing silence create a visceral and unsettling effect, forcing the audience to confront the character’s internal state. The narrative structure itself is intriguing, with each dream unfolding as a day in reverse, beginning in darkness and gradually moving towards light – a light that is often fleeting and hard-won.
“Resurrection” doesn’t shy away from philosophical questions. It posits that dreaming is akin to fire – a vital force that gives life meaning, even if it also carries the risk of destruction. In a world obsessed with immortality, the film asks whether a life without dreams is truly worth living. The film’s exploration of these themes is not didactic; it’s presented through evocative imagery and emotional resonance, leaving room for individual interpretation.
A Film Best Experienced in the Cinema
While a home theater setup with a quality sound system can enhance the experience, “Resurrection” is undeniably a film best seen on the big screen. The Amherst Cinema is currently showing the film, with its run scheduled to finish on Thursday, March 5, 2026, according to Amherst Cinema’s website. The film’s immersive visuals and sound design demand the full cinematic experience. It’s a film that stays with you, prompting reflection on the nature of life, death, and the power of the human imagination.
“Resurrection” is more than just a film; it’s a work of art. It’s a challenging, rewarding, and ultimately unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s a reminder of the power of cinema to transport us to other worlds, to explore the depths of the human psyche, and to ignite our own imaginations.
What comes next for Bi Gan remains to be seen, but “Resurrection” solidifies his position as one of the most innovative and visionary filmmakers working today. If you have the opportunity to see this film, don’t miss it.
What are your thoughts on the role of dreams in art and life? Share your perspectives in the comments below.
