The Tree of Life - Intimacy Meets Transcendence

This film reminds me of why I love Terrence Malick films. They're a meditative experience. I watched it on my home projector, as the sun was setting, windows open with a cool breeze. It was an experience to remember.

It’s the kind of drama I love from a film. But what makes tree of life unique is that it’s a film that deals with the transcendent, that which is far beyond humans and their comprehension, and the intimate, the daily routine of family and their conflicts. It’s powerful and personal. In one scene it’s creation and dinosaurs, In another it’s a family at a table having an argument. Why did Malick choose to bring these 2 themes together? I think at the heart of it all is the meaning of life: human connection. From the small flicker of a flame to the end of eternity on a sandy beach, humans were made for relationship. 

Even the title Tree of Life is interesting. Biblically the tree of life deals with the beginning (Genesis) and the end (Revelation). It provides eternal life to those who eat of it.  In "The Tree of Life," the tree of life is a recurring visual metaphor, representing the cycle of life and death, as well as the interconnectedness of all living things. The film's opening narration quotes from the Book of Job, asking, "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the Earth?... When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" This biblical language sets the tone for the film's exploration of creation, and the mystery of existence. In context though God speaking in Job, which is technically the first book of the Bible written, God is showing Job He's the creator, and therefore the expert. While we don't understand the trials of life, God knows, and as the expert we trust Him. Again transcendence and intimacy! 

It’s a poetic, and visually stunning film that raises questions about the meaning of life and our place in the universe.