By Alex – June 30, 2024
Sony Pictures has officially dropped the trailer for Here, Robert Zemeckis’s newest film set to hit theaters this November. Known for pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, Zemeckis brings us a unique narrative that unfolds in a single living room over a span of 100 years. A bold move reminiscent of early silent movies, as noted by Zemeckis himself: The single perspective never changes, but everything around it does.
The film captures the essence of different families inhabiting the same space across generations, from the age of dinosaurs to futuristic settings. Prepare to witness an entire history distilled through one location, complete with an unprecedented use of CGI de-aging technology.
The Charm of a Fixed Perspective
Zemeckis’s choice to keep the camera static is fascinating. As he put it, What passes by this view of the universe? I think it’s an interesting way to do a meditation on mortality. It taps into the universal theme that everything passes.
This approach sets up a meditative examination of time and the human experience, uniquely centered in a single spot.
The De-Aging Magic
Both Tom Hanks and Robin Wright are digitally de-aged throughout the film. Watch Hanks span from his teenage years to an elder statesman in a visually striking transformation journey.
Discussing the advanced technology used for de-aging, Zemeckis noted: The technology only goes so far,
emphasizing that despite the tech wizardry, it’s the actors’ performances that carry the weight of their characters’ journeys through time.
A Star-Studded Ensemble
Accompanying Hanks and Wright are Paul Bettany, Kelly Reilly, and Michelle Dockery. The story particularly follows Al (Bettany) and his wife Rose (Reilly) as they navigate life post-World War II with their son Richard (played by Hanks), a key character whose life events drive much of the narrative.
Dinosaur Cameos and Time Travel
The trailer showcases eras from millions of years ago when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The static viewpoint even captures scenes that show these mighty creatures in action.
This choice harkens back to classic visual effects techniques that Zemeckis has explored throughout his career.
An Emotional Reunion
Here also marks an exciting reunion for Zemeckis with his Forrest Gump collaborators: Tom Hanks and Robin Wright stand out not just as actors but now as digitally de-aged versions of themselves, guiding viewers through decades within the confines of a single room.
Zemeckis’s Visionary Direction
Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, Here takes inspiration from Richard McGuire’s graphic novel. The script co-written by Eric Roth delves deep into themes of love, loss, and memory encapsulated within a singular space over an extensive timeline. As Zemeckis aptly described: This was a risky venture… but other than that, yeah, it was worth it!
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