“Three Thousand Years of Longing” – The Unsung Cinematic Gem of 2022

March 2, 2024

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In the realm of film, where blockbusters and franchise juggernauts often steal the limelight, it’s the quiet yet profound narratives that sometimes resonate the longest. George Miller’s “Three Thousand Years of Longing” emerges as perhaps the most underrated movie of 2022, a testament to its unique storytelling and visual artistry.

At its heart, “Three Thousand Years of Longing” is a love letter to the power of stories. Tilda Swinton plays Dr. Alithea Binnie, an academic whose life is steeped in reason and contentment with solitude. Fate intervenes when she uncovers a Djinn, portrayed by the charismatic Idris Elba, while attending a conference in Istanbul. The Djinn offers her three wishes in exchange for his freedom, igniting a narrative that weaves through the tapestry of time, exploring themes of desire, loneliness, and connection.

Despite receiving a 71% rating from 259 votes and an audience rating summary that screams “A Mandatory Must Watch! An Easy 5/5*”, the film faced challenges in reaching its audience. Initially conceived for a targeted rollout, the movie expanded to over 2,400 theaters, diluting its intended impact. Coupled with a release date that perhaps didn’t optimize audience turnout, “Three Thousand Years of Longing” didn’t quite achieve the box office success it deserved.

Critics have praised the film for its “visually sumptuous, grown-up fairy tale” atmosphere and its ability to juggle multiple storylines without losing its essence. It’s a garrulous journey that, for some, may lack an overwhelmingly important storyline but compensates with its rich tapestry of interconnected tales.

Moreover, the R rating comes with purpose: this fairy-tale isn’t for children. It’s a mature reflection on history’s violence, brimming with moments of nudity and sex that serve the story rather than merely titillate.

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by sequels and reboots, Miller’s creation stands out for its originality. It’s not just a romantic or erotic fantasy but a complex exploration of human emotion and the stories we tell ourselves. The film may not have been the follow-up to “Mad Max: Fury Road” that audiences expected from George Miller, but it’s nonetheless a riveting endeavor that dives deep into escapism before anchoring itself in the viewers’ reality.

“Three Thousand Years of Longing” is a movie that dares to dream and expand on essential themes like storytelling and human connection. It invites viewers to introspect and challenges those content with loneliness to examine their own “blankets of cynicism.” It’s a visual and narrative feast, where each frame is painted with intention and every line delivered carries weight.

In conclusion, while “Three Thousand Years of Longing” may not have made waves at the box office, it stands as a cinematic masterpiece ripe for rediscovery. As time goes on, this film is likely to accrue a cult following who will appreciate its depth, beauty, and narrative complexity – hallmarks of what could be considered the most underrated movie of 2022.