This weekend I saw "The Fall" (2006) directed by Tarsem Singh. While I am sure it is not everyone's cup of tea, I thought it was fantastic.
I'm a sucker for lush fantasy tales that are beautifully shot and told sincerely and simply (ala "Dark Crystal," "Like Water for Chocolate"). "The Fall" interweaves two different realities, one set in 1920s Los Angeles, where a despondent and crippled stuntman befriends a young girl and begins to spin her an "epic tale," and the other set in the fantasy world of the tale itself, complete with archetypal heroes, villains, monsters, and princesses.
It's worth seeing for the imagery alone, shot in 18 countries around the world, reportedly without any digital effects. The child actress Catinca Utara is perfectly cast as the innocent and mischievous patient in a 1920s LA hospital. The rest of the cast are wonderfully game and colorful as well.
I watched it on Amazon streaming, and was blown away by the cinematography. I kind of need to see it on BluRay now. Or better yet, in an actual theater. However you can get a hold of it, watch this film!
