Solaris
This might be one of the most psychologically complex and nuanced films I have ever seen, pretty much the love child between Stalker and Mirror, giving it a richer structure that rivals even his contemporaries.
This is nothing short of a masterpiece, merging basic sci-fi elements with a deep exploration of the subconscious in an attempt to create what is, in my opinion, an almost flawless film. To say Tarkovsky was a master of his craft is truly an understatement, and to call this his masterpiece would be redundant, given that each and every one of his films (at least the ones I’ve seen) shares a thematic resonance and complexity that builds toward an almost flawless filmography.
Regarding this film in particular, I must say I was in complete awe, not only of the way it deals with and portrays its subject matter, but also of the creatively unique manner in which Tarkovsky makes us feel through his art, without ever insisting upon itself. It is clear that his films and their themes mean something deeply personal to him, and the fact that he can express this through his craft in a way that resonates with the viewer on such a profound level leaves me speechless.
Truly one of the best , and a true artist in his purest form.
#criterion collection