In a post-apocalyptic future where humanity has given up on dreaming, a woman uses old cinematic techniques to help a dying monster live different lives across a century. Through distinct dream chapters, the film explores the six senses recognized in Buddhist thought: sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, and mind.
Following the hypnotic Long Day’s Journey Into Night, Bi Gan returns with an even more ambitious project. As if turning on an old cinema projector, the director invites the audience into a visually inventive journey through different eras of cinema with Shu Qi as master of ceremonies and Jackson Yee wandering through the screen as a spiritual guide for the audience. The film flows like a disjointed dream—an exquisite display of crafty skills that pays homage to German Expressionism, Akira Kurosawa, and Orson Welles. It culminates in a final, masterful long take delivered with the precision of a true artisan. This is a floating dream to be experienced with no rush; Bi Gan truly intends to make his audience dream.
In a brave new world where movie theaters are disappearing, the price of a ticket is well worth this unique, unrepeatable experience, specially manufactured for those infected with the virus of cinephilia. The young Chinese director takes a significant step forward in his career, honoring the virtues of the past while striving to be revolutionary. Hypnotic and mesmerizing, this one-of-a-kind science fiction drama goes beyond cinema itself—it is not just a film, but an immersive experience. It is not made for everyone, but for those it reaches, it is unforgettable.
Resurrection began its global journey at the Cannes Film Festival, where it premiered in official competition and won a prestigious Special Jury Prize. Following its acclaimed festival run, the film achieved a rare feat for art-house cinema by opening at number one at the Chinese box office, grossing an impressive $16.5 million (RMB 116.8 million) in its debut weekend. Audiences worldwide can now experience this cinematic dreamscape: Janus Films handles its North American theatrical distribution alongside standard international releases in regions like France and Australia, while The Criterion Collection provides worldwide physical media and streaming access.