Initiating the season of PROSA film screenings is becoming a demanding yet consistently pleasurable task for us. We commence 2024 with Terrence Malick and his bold, profound, and philosophical cinema, exploring a theme central to our lives within the myriad themes of his work: How do we navigate love? How do we manage the give-and-take in this spontaneous exchange that love evokes? Here, we delve into relational love, romantic love, self-love, sacrificial love, and love in its essential form.

Terrence Malick was a diligent student of philosopher Steven Cavell at Harvard in the mid-1960s. Cavell is a contemporary philosopher deeply engaged in the study of cinema, and the two maintained contact as Malick found his path within this philosophy for cinema. Indeed, cinema and philosophy have mutually benefited from various relationships over the last century—films unfolding within a philosophical register, films tackling philosophical problems, and films attempting to function as philosophy itself. The greatest films often subtly and intricately engage with life's most challenging questions, deliberately stepping into territories traditionally occupied by philosophers and theologians.

The viewer's immersion in this experience is owed to the use of techniques such as handheld cameras, detailed shots, frames crafted with the aesthetics of the human eye, and extensive use of wide-angle lenses to create a sense of vastness and depth. Slow-motion images and close-ups of natural elements like plants, water, and animals immerse the viewer in the environment and landscape of the universe we inhabit on this planet. These techniques enable the viewer to experience the world in a deeper and more intimate way, often leading to contemplation of the beauty and complexity of nature and human existence that may have gone unnoticed.

Here, we will explore Malick's unique perspective on love and its profound connection to the human spirit through two emblematic works:
In "DAYS OF HEAVEN," we are transported to an ethereal and contemplative setting where love unfolds amidst majestic nature. Malick transcends romantic conventions, offering a philosophical perspective on love. Through his poetic narrative and stunning visuals, he surpasses the limitations of conventional romance, exploring the depth of love in the face of the human spirit.

In "TO THE WONDER," Malick delves even deeper into the philosophical exploration of relational love. The film examines the essence of human relationships, emphasizing the complexities and transience of romantic love. Malick challenges narrative conventions differently, using evocative and reflective imagery to explore the volatile nature of relationships and the role of love in enriching the spirit.

Terrence Malick, known for his contemplative approach and passion for cinema, creates universal stories that transcend the boundaries of time and space. His films not only explore love but also celebrate the human condition, inviting the audience to reflect on their own existence.

Carefully selected films and themes by PROSA continue the tradition of compelling and incisive film cycles, promoting a philosophical approach to cinema. Following the screenings, we invite everyone to participate in post-debates, where we will delve into factual analyses, trivia, psychological insights, and narratological discussions, further enhancing the cinematic experience.

Join us!
See you soon.