Gravity

WARNING: Today's post is a bit philosophical.

Decided to go and see GRAVITY on a whim today, after hearing nothing but praise about it and realising it was about to leave cinemas.

I found the cinematic juxtapositions of physical space really compelling. There are some really mind-blowing shots of the vast void of space, the Earth below and in particular LIFE below - the glowing lights of cities and urbanity visible from the orbit. Humanity's footprint is so condensed and compressed you feel like you could extend a gloved hand and touch it, yet it's so far away. And then, in an instant, the camera transports you away from the grand vista, inside the spacesuit visor, into the claustrophobic life-support shell which enables humans to cling to life in space.

You really feel fragile watching this film. Gravity brutally exposes the comparative weakness of the human body in relation to epic space and time. The stark frailty of our flesh, blood and bone in opposition to the power of huge physical forces leaves you feeling awed and impresses a keen sense of human mortality. Watching to see whether an individual can continue to persist and survive in the liminal zones of physicality and conciousness is totally and utterly gripping.

I really appreciate experiences or insights that help me take a step back from the insularity and restlessness of daily life, to take a look at the bigger picture. Things that re-affirm the simple joys of being and doing, that remind you of the tenuous nature of life, that help you appreciate what you have and the people you love that you share your life with.
GRAVITY qualifies in every respect. It's a stunning, immensely powerful work and I urge everyone to see it if they can - in cinema if possible.

I wish I had a picture today that could somehow do this marvellous film justice. Leamington Christmas Lights will have to do...